Fabrication of carbon quantum dots modified granular SnO2 nanotubes for visible light photocatalysis

The C QDs modified granular SnO2 nanotubes are prepared via a simple technical route through which SnO2 nanotubes are dispersed in C QDs solution, then dried at 80 degrees C. The results of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infra-red spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy indicated that SnO2 nanotubes are well combined with C QDs through surface carbon-oxygen groups. By degradation of Rhodamine B under visible light irradiation, it demonstrates that the photocatalytic performance of these composites significantly enhanced. Furthermore, the unique up-converted photoluminescence behaviour of the carbon dots and the remarkable granular, tube-shape structure of the SnO2 are considered as the main reasons of this enhancement. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.