Graphene-decorated novel Z-scheme Bi@MOF composites promote high performance photocatalytic desulfurization

The Z-scheme photocatalyst constructed based on bismuth-based metal oxides (BMO) and metal–organic frameworks (MOF) holds significant potential for effectively degrading odorous Reduced Sulfur Compounds (RSC) due to its robust redox capabilities. However, challenges such as lattice mismatch, interface defects, and rapid recombination of photogenerated charges substantially impede the Z- scheme charge transfer in BMO@MOF photocatalysts. In this research, graphene was introduced into the BiVO4@NH2-UiO-66 system as an electron bridge and co-catalyst to reduce the interfacial transfer resistance and increase the absorption of near-infrared light, resulting in superior degradability of RSCs compared to both the individual components and BiVO4@NH2-UiO-66. The incorporated graphene not only serves as the growth substrate for BiVO4 and NH2-UiO-66 but also plays a crucial role as an electron mediator in enhancing the vectorial charge transfer from BiVO4 to NH2-UiO-66. This strengthens the Z-scheme charge transfer pathway, suppressing bulk charge recombination, increasing overall carrier density, and maintaining robust redox capabilities. Additionally, the investigation of active species and key intermediate products was conducted to explore potential degradation pathways of RSCs. This work demonstrates a novel approach in promoting photocatalytic degradation of RSCs by harnessing the synergistic effects between doping and heterogeneous structures within the photocatalyst.