Abstract
Bi2S3 nanofibers were prepared via a hydrothermal technique and a photoassisted deposition way was applied to prepare silver-decorated Bi2S3 nanocomposites. Bi2S3 nanofibers and silver-decorated Bi2S3 nanocomposites were investigated using many characterization tools such as X-ray diffraction, field-emission scanning electron microscopy, photoluminescence emission spectra, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, ultraviolet and visible spectroscopy, and BET surface area. Photocatalytic destruction of thiophene was selected to determine the photocatalytic performance of Bi2S3 nanofibers and silver-decorated Bi2S3 nanocomposites. XRD results confirm the formation of Bi2S3 nanofibers. FSEM results reveal Bi2S3 nanofiber structure and silver was decorated on surface of Bi2S3 nanofibers. XPS results reveal that state of decorated silver is metallic. Decoration of Bi2S3 nanofibers by silver decreases electron-hole recombination rat, decreases bandgap, and increases photocatalytic activity. 0.3 wt% Ag/Bi2S3 photocatalyst has the top photocatalytic activity by which 100% thiophene was degraded within 60 min using 1.6 g/l photocatalyst dose. 0.3 wt% Ag/Bi2S3 photocatalyst has photocatalytic stability for five times use.