Preparation and photocatalytic activity of Sb2S3/Bi2S3 doped TiO2 from complex precursor via gel–hydrothermal treatment

Sb2S3/Bi2S3 doped TiO2 were prepared with the coordination compounds [M(S2CNEt)3] (M=Sb, Bi; S2CNEt=pyrrolidinedithiocarbamate) as precursors via gel–hydrothermal techniques. The doped TiO2 were characterized by XRD, SEM, XPS and UV–vis diffuse reflectance means. The photocatalyst based on doped TiO2 for photodecolorization of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) was examined. The optimal Bi2S3/Sb2S3 content, pH and different doped techniques have been investigated. Photocatalytic tests reveal that M2S3 doped TiO2 via the gel–hydrothermal route performs better photocatalytic activity for photodegradation reaction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP).

Graphical abstractSb2S3/Bi2S3 doped TiO2 were prepared using [M(S2COEt)3] (M=Sb, Bi; S2COEt=pyrrdidine-1-dithiocarbamaate) as precursors via gel–hydrothermal techniques. M2S3 doped TiO2 performs better photocatalytic activity for photodegradation reaction of 4-nitrophenol.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► The coordination compounds [M(S2CNEt)3] (M=Sb, Bi; S2CNEt=pyrrolidinedithiocarbamate) as precursors to prepare Sb2S3/Bi2S3 doped TiO2. ► The sol–hydrothermal, sol–gel and gel–hydrothermal processes for photocatalysis fabrication were employed and compared. ► Sb2S3/Bi2S3 doped TiO2 obtained via the gel–hydrothermal process showed better performance for photodecolorization test of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP).