Rapid synthesis of Cu₂O/CeO₂ p-n heterojunctions with enhanced photocatalytic properties by a sonochemical method

The construction of p-n heterojunction is critical to reduce the electron-hole recombination rate and broaden the light absorption edge of photocatalysts. In this study, we successfully synthesize the Cu2O/CeO(2 )p-n heterojunctions through a rapid, simple, and environmentally friendly sonochemical method without any additional oxidants or elevation of the temperature and pressure. The prepared Cu2O/CeO(2)heterojunction shows excellent adsorption of light, low electronic transfer resistance, and higher electron transfer efficiency. Under the irradiation of visible light, the as-preparedCu(2)O/CeO2 heterojunction exhibits exceptional capability for the degradation of methylene blue as well as outstanding reusability. The photo-generated h+ is found to have a significant influence on the photocatalytic antibacterial of the as-prepared Cu2O/CeO2 heterojunction under visible-light irradiation and the sterilization rate toward Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli of our samples can achieve up to 100%. Our work provides a green and rapid way to produce Cu2O/CeO2 p-n heterojunctions with enhanced photocatalysis.