Photocatalytic degradation of imidacloprid by optimized Bi₂WO₆/NH₂-MIL-88B(Fe) composite under visible light

Imidacloprid as a widely used neonicotinoid insecticide can cause harmful pesticide residue inevitably. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) were innovatively composited to improve the light absorption and degradation performance of Bi₂WO₆ semiconductor, which expanded the photodegradation application in solving environmental problems. Based on the synergistic effect of Bi₂WO₆ and NH₂-MIL-88B(Fe), a Bi₂WO₆/NH₂-MIL-88B(Fe) (BNM) heterojunction photocatalyst with high-performance of photocatalytic degradation activities was successfully synthesized. The optimized BNM catalyst had a good degradation rate under visible light, which was mainly caused by generation of the active ·OH. Transient photocurrent response and electrochemical impedance tests verified that 1:2 BNM exhibits a highest charge separation and a lowest carrier recombination rate which were favorable to the photocatalytic activity. Cycle experiments show that the composite photocatalyst had good reusability and stability which were very important for potential industry applications.