One Pot Synthesize α-Fe₂O₃/Graphene Composites and Their Photocatalytic Properties

α-Fe₂O₃ and graphene composite (α-Fe₂O₃/G) was prepared by a facile one-step hydrothermal method with an aim of improving photocatalytic efficiency of the α-Fe₂O₃. Composition of reduced graphene oxide and α-Fe₂O3 were simultaneously achieved during the hydrothermal reaction. The structures and morphologies of the composites were characterized by X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. The photoelectrochemical properties were investigated by the Mott-Schottky, electrochemical impedance spectra and UV-vis diffusion spectra measurements. The photodegradation results showed that α-Fe2O3/G composites had a much better photocatalytic performance than pure α-Fe₂O₃ due to extended light absorption range and lower electron–hole recombination rate. It provided a new insight into the effect of graphene on photocatalytic activity for high efficient catalysts.