Enhanced photodegradation activity of Rhodamine B by MgFe2O4/Ag3VO4 under visible light irradiation

MgFe2O4/Ag3VO4 composite photocatalysts were synthesized by a milling–calcining method. The results of Rhodamine B (RhB) photodegradation showed that the MgFe2O4/Ag3VO4 composite exhibited enhanced photodegradation activity under visible-light irradiation. The 0.2 wt.% MgFe2O4/Ag3VO4 calcined at 573 K exhibited the optimal photocatalytic behavior. Its maximum degradation rate was 5.4 times higher than that of Ag3VO4. Moreover, transient photocurrent-time was also investigated. Based on the results of the characterizations, the mechanism of enhanced photocatalytic activity is discussed.

► Novel MgFe2O4/Ag3VO4 composite was synthesized by a milling–calcining method.
► Metal Ag was observed in the MgFe2O4/Ag3VO4 composite.
► The photo-activity of the composite is 5.4 times higher than that of Ag3VO4.
► The coupling effect of MgFe2O4 and Ag3VO4 is the key factor.