Enhanced photocatalytic H2 production activity of Ag-doped Bi2WO6-graphene based photocatalysts

Ag-doped Bi2WO6-graphene based photocatalysts were found to exhibit hydrogen production activity. The performance of Bi2WO6-graphene based photocatalysts were investigated and optimized in this study. The activity can be further improved by Ag-doping. The morphology, surface chemistry, and phase structure of the photocatalysts were investigated by Field emission scanning electron microscopy, Transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Raman spectra, and X-ray diffraction. UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and zeta potential were measured to study the optical properties, bandgap and dispersion stability of the photocatalysts. The effects of forming Bi2WO6-graphene contact and Ag doping on the light absorption, band gap, dispersion stability, and photocatalytic H2 production performance of the composite photocatalysts were evaluated. The improved photocatalytic performance is mainly owing to the Ag doping and high electrical conductivity of graphene.