Ferroelectric-Photocatalysts for Degradation of Phthalate: Doped BiFeO3-Graphene Oxide Nanocomposites

Abstract

A complete photocatalytic degradation of dibutyl phthalate (DBP) using ferroelectric doped-bismuth ferrite- (BiFeO3; BFO) graphene oxide (GO) nanocomposites is achieved. The local ferroelectric properties of doped BFO photocatalysts supported onto GO is well-utilized for photodegradation of pollutant. A complete photodegradation of DBP under ultraviolet light irradiation is achieved within 2.5 h, traced by gas chromatography. The best photocatalytic activity of Bi0.95Ag0.05Fe0.95Mn0.05O3-GO (ABMGO) nanocomposite is attributed to its large intrinsic local ferroelectric polarization, which suppresses the recombination of photoinduced charge carriers and the presence of Ag+ and Mn4+ as new active sites on the large surface of ABMGO speeds up the photodegradation of DBP. The possible mechanism of photodegradation of DBP is presented using mass spectrometry includes several intermediate products; phthalic acid, benzoic acid, benzaldehyde, and hydroquinone and 3-methyl butyric acid which are harmless for the environment compared to DBP.