Photoactivated route and new bromine source for AgBr/Ag nanocomposites with enhanced visible light photocatalytic activity

AgBr/Ag nanocomposites were fabricated by an in situ photoactivated route. Tetra-octylammonium bromide was used firstly as both bromine source and surfactant. The composites were composed of AgBr particles and Ag nanoparticles that deposited evenly on the surface of AgBr particles. The AgBr/Ag nanocomposites exhibited higher visible light photocatalytic activity for decomposing organic pollutant under the irradiation of common 24 W cool daylight fluorescent lamp or direct sunlight. Even under the diffuse indoor daylight of a shady side room, the AgBr/Ag nanocomposite photocatalyst still possessed the ability to degrade model dyes. Recycle photocatalysis experiments indicated that the AgBr/Ag nanocomposites exhibited higher stability.

► AgBr/Ag nanocomposites were fabricated by an in situ photoactivated route.
► Tetra-octylammonium bromide was used firstly as both bromine source and surfactant.
► The nanocomposites exhibited higher visible light photocatalytic activity.
► Irradiation light can be from fluorescent lamp, sunlight or diffuse daylight.
► The AgBr/Ag nanocomposites also exhibited higher stability.