Facile synthesis of Bi nanoparticle modified TiO₂ with enhanced visible light photocatalytic activity

Uniform Bi nanoparticle modified TiO₂ porous nanofibers were prepared via the processes of emulsion electrospinning and the subsequent calcination. The morphology, crystal structure, optical and photocurrent responses, as well as the photocatalytic performance of the obtained photocatalysts were characterized and investigated in detail. The results suggest that the modified TiO₂ porous nanofibers show significantly enhanced visible light photocatalytic activity, as Bi nanoparticles would largely extend the visible light absorption of TiO₂ because of its surface plasmon resonance. The co-existence of the semiconductor behavior of Bi nanoparticles could further prevent the recombination of electrons in the conduction band with holes. Overall, this work provides new insights into the fabrication of TiO₂ based composites as high performance photocatalysts, facilitating their application in the environmental protection issues. -- Highlights: •Bi modified TiO₂ nanofibers were prepared by a two step electrospinning. • Significantly enhanced visible light photocatalytic activity was achieved. • The mechanism of photodegradation under visible light was investigated.