Microwave Synthesis of (g‐C₃N₄)−BiVO₄: Selective Adsorption and Photocatalytic Activity Towards Dye Degradation

Abstract

Abstract Photocatalytic degradation of pollutants has been extensively studied. Among the investigated photocatalysts, BiVO 4 has emerged as a very promising material. BiVO 4 is known for its narrow band‐gap energy suitable for solar‐driven reactions; however, it is subjected to challenges such as charge recombination and slow electron transfer kinetics. Combining BiVO 4 with g‐C 3 N 4 proves promising, aligning energy levels and leveraging unique charge transport properties to enhance dye degradation under visible light. This study reports a novel synthesis of g‐C 3 N 4 −BiVO 4 heterojunction through in‐situ urea pyrolysis, ensuring homogeneous dispersion. While maintaining the monoclinic structure of BiVO 4 , the heterojunction exhibits increased surface area and a more negative zeta potential, influencing catalyst‐substrate to be degraded interactions. Adsorption studies reveal distinct behaviors with cationic dyes (MB and RhB) forming multilayers, hindering light absorption, and reducing photocatalytic efficiency. Conversely, the heterojunction performs efficiently with the anionic MO dye. Photoelectrochemical studies show that the heterojunction has succeeded in promoting the separation of photogenerated charges. The study lays the groundwork for optimizing synthesis methods and designing nanocomposites with superior photocatalytic activities.