Enhanced photocatalytic degradation of 2,4,6-trichlorophenol and RhB with RhB-sensitized BiOClBr catalyst based on response surface methodology

In order to develop the degradation technology of toxic and refractory pollutants, a new Rhodamine B-sensitized BiOClBr photocatalyst was synthesized by a simple impregnation method. Different from the previous work, this work made good use of the pollutant RhB. The dye RhB acted as a component of the nanocomposite. The sensitization of the dye not only promotes the effective degradation of 2,4,6-TCP, but also RhB itself. The morphology, structure, optical and electrochemical properties of the as-prepared catalyst were systematically characterized. The factors affecting photocatalytic removal 2,4,6-TCP (dosage, initial concentration and pH) were optimized by modeling the 3D surface response. Under visible light irradiation, the removal rate of 2,4,6-TCP can reach 92.3% in 80 min at an optimal initial concentration of 10 mg·L − 1, a pH of 4.2 and a dosage of 16.2 mg. The photocatalytic mechanism of the material was discussed in conjunction with the energy band structure and capture agent experiment. The main active species are h+ and ·OH. This research provides a new idea for the simultaneous treatment of dye and chlorophenol wastewater.