Rapid synthesis of Cu2O/CeO2 p–n heterojunctions with enhanced photocatalytic properties by a sonochemical method

Abstract

AbstractThe construction of p–n heterojunction is critical to reduce the electron–hole recombination rate and broaden the light absorption edge of photocatalysts. In this study, we successfully synthesize the Cu2O/CeO2 p–n heterojunctions through a rapid, simple, and environmentally friendly sonochemical method without any additional oxidants or elevation of the temperature and pressure. The prepared Cu2O/CeO2 heterojunction shows excellent adsorption of light, low electronic transfer resistance, and higher electron transfer efficiency. Under the irradiation of visible light, the as‐prepared Cu2O/CeO2 heterojunction exhibits exceptional capability for the degradation of methylene blue as well as outstanding reusability. The photo‐generated h+ is found to have a significant influence on the photocatalytic antibacterial of the as‐prepared Cu2O/CuO2 heterojunction under visible‐light irradiation and the sterilization rate toward Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli of our samples can achieve up to 100%. Our work provides a green and rapid way to produce Cu2O/CeO2 p–n heterojunctions with enhanced photocatalysis.