Direct synthesis of BiOCl/TiO2 spindle for enhanced visible-light photocatalytic oxidation of benzyl alcohol

Abstract

The development of highly efficient photocatalytic systems for alcohol oxidation represents a promising strategy to mitigate escalating environmental pollution and energy challenges. However, conventional photocatalysts are significantly constrained by their relatively low catalytic efficiency. In this study, a novel BiOCl/TiO2 (BOT) heterojunction was strategically designed through a straightforward hydrothermal transformation of potassium titanate (K-titanate) nanowires coupled with in situ growth of BiOCl quantum dots. The BOT composites demonstrated exceptional photocatalytic performance in the selective oxidation of benzyl alcohol to benzaldehyde under visible light irradiation (λ > 420 nm). The optimized BOT-0.05 catalyst achieved a benzaldehyde formation rate of 1.94 mmol·g−1·h−1, exceeding those of pure-phase TiO2 and BiOCl. This remarkable enhancement is attributed to the heterojunction interface formed between BiOCl quantum dots and TiO2 (101) facets, which significantly enhances light-harvesting capabilities and extends the absorption range, further promoting the separation efficiency of photogenerated charge carriers. Collectively, this work directs the design of TiO2-based composite catalysts with tailored morphology and superior catalytic activity, offering new insights into sustainable green synthesis and environmental remediation strategies.