Visible light responsive BiPO₄/g-C₃N₄ for enhanced photocatalysis of 2-4 dichlorophenol under solar irradiation

<jats:title>Abstract</jats:title>
<jats:p>In this study, bismuth phosphate (BiPO<jats:sub>4</jats:sub>) incorporated with graphitic carbon nitride (g-C<jats:sub>3</jats:sub>N<jats:sub>4</jats:sub>) was successfully constructed by a facile thermal deposition. The morphology, optical property and crystal structure were systematically studied by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectra (UV-DRS). The morphology confirmed that the BiPO<jats:sub>4</jats:sub> is successfully deposited on the surface of g-C<jats:sub>3</jats:sub>N<jats:sub>4</jats:sub>. With the deposition of g-C<jats:sub>3</jats:sub>N<jats:sub>4</jats:sub> had enhanced the light absorbance, especially in the visible light region with 2.5% dopant dosage giving the highest absorbance. This significantly improved the photocatalysis of 2,4 dichlorophenol (2-4DCP) under solar irradiation attributed by 2.5% BiPO<jats:sub>4</jats:sub>/g-C<jats:sub>3</jats:sub>N<jats:sub>4</jats:sub> with achieved a complete removal in 90 min. This study could inspire new ideas and alternative solution for photodegradation of other organic pollutants under solar irradiation.</jats:p>