Novel Bi/BaSnO ₃ /BiVO ₄ Z‐Scheme Heterojunction Photocatalyst with Highly Boosted Photocatalytic Activity Under Visible Light

Abstract The fabrication of Bi/BaSnO 3 /BiVO 4 Z‐scheme heterojunctions, renowned for their excellent catalytic performance under visible light (VL) irradiation, was realized through a combination of precipitation and photoreduction methods facilitated by ultraviolet light. To comprehensively elucidate the structure, morphology, carrier separation capabilities, VL absorption capacities, and energy band configurations of the resulting composites, a range of analytical techniques were utilized. Subsequently, the photocatalytic performance and stability of the composites were assessed through examination of methylene blue (MB) degradation under VL irradiation. Notably, the Bi/BaSnO 3 /BiVO 4 Z‐scheme heterojunctions demonstrated a significant enhancement in catalytic degradation efficiency for MB degradation compared to BaSnO 3 and BiVO 4 components as well as the BaSnO 3 /BiVO 4 composite. Impressively, the Bi/BaSnO 3 /BiVO 4 configuration achieved a remarkable 93.8% decolorization rate of MB following a mere 2‐h exposure to VL. Furthermore, the potential charge transfer pathways and mechanisms underlying the enhanced catalytic activity observed in Bi/BaSnO 3 /BiVO 4 and BaSnO 3 /BiVO 4 under VL conditions. Insights drawn from the photocatalysts' band structure, along with the outcomes of radical trapping experiments, hold the promise of shedding light on the intricate interplay of charge carriers and surface reactions governing the photocatalytic process.