Tube-like α-Fe₂O₃@Ag/AgCl heterostructure: Controllable synthesis and enhanced plasmonic photocatalytic activity

Plasmonic photocatalysts coupled with semiconductors are one of the most popular combinations in environmental remediation applications. In this regard, a novel tube-like α-Fe₂O₃@Ag/AgCl hybrid structure is fabricated by anchoring Ag/AgCl hybrid nanoparticles on the surface of α-Fe₂O₃ short nanotubes (SNTs) by a step-by-step strategy. Firstly, the monodispersed α-Fe₂O₃ SNTs have been synthesized via an anion-assisted hydrothermal process followed by the loading of Ag nanoparticles on the surface of α-Fe₂O₃ SNTs through the classic silver mirror reaction mechanism. From in situ oxidation of Ag nanoparticles, the final product α-Fe₂O₃@Ag/AgCl heterostructures has been obtained. We study the morphology, composition, and photocatalytic properties of the as obtained tube-like α-Fe₂O₃@Ag/AgCl nano-heterostructures. The photocatalytic activities of as obtained photocatalysts have been tested by the degradation of organic dye Rhodamine B (RhB) under simulated sunlight (UV + visible light), visible light and UV light irradiation. The main reason for the enhanced photocatalytic performance is attributed to the broad spectral response from the combination of narrow/wide bandgap semiconductors with metallic Ag nanoparticles and efficient charge transfer from plasmon-excited Ag nanoparticles to α-Fe₂O₃ and AgCl. Finally, this hybrid structure provides a roadmap for the controlled synthesis of plasmonic photocatalysts with excellent properties, and can be used for practical application in environmental issues.