Reduced graphene oxide/potassium niobate composite nanoscrolls with enhanced photocatalytic activity for dye degradation

Reduced graphene oxide/potassium niobate composite nanoscrolls were prepared by incorporating reduced graphene oxide (RGO) sheets into potassium niobate sheets at room temperature. The composite nanoscrolls were characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, UV–vis diffusion reflectance spectra and fluorescence spectra. For the photocatalytic degradation of rhodamine B (RhB) under UV light, the degradation efficiency of the composite nanoscrolls can reach 68.3% after irradiation for 30 min, increased 34.3% relative to the pure potassium niobium nanotubes. The dramatically enhanced activity can be attributed to the synergistic contribution of both a retarded charge recombination rate caused by a high electronic mobility of RGO and an increased surface adsorption of RhB.

Graphical abstract.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Graphene/potassium niobate composite nanoscrolls were prepared by a simple procedure. ► The nanoscrolls showed a higher photocatalytic activity for degradation of RhB. ► The synergistic effects of adsorption and charge separation played vital roles. ► The composite nanoscrolls had potential applications in environmental issues.