Carbon quantum dots decorated MoSe₂ photocatalyst for Cr(VI) reduction in the UV-vis-NIR photon energy range

Developing whole spectrum responsive photocatalysts is one of greatly significant subjects from the viewpoint of using solar energy. Here we have firstly developed a carbon quantum dots-decorated MoSe₂ photocatalyst that is active in the whole spectrum of solar light for Cr(VI) reduction. The Cr(VI) reduction rate of higher than 99% has been achieved with 1wt.% nanocarbon emersions under UV, visible and near-infrared irradiation at 180min. Improvement is attributed to its excellent light absorption, efficient charge separation, and the light down converting effect of carbon quantum dots.