Multi-dimensional lead-free hybrid double perovskite toward efficient and stable photocatalytic selective oxidation of toluene

Abstract

With unique photoelectronic properties, perovskites have drawn attention in photocatalysis. However, their activity and stability especially in moist environments is not appealing, despite it was demonstrated that the construction of three-dimensional (3D) and low-dimensional counterparts could result in boosting of activity and stability, respectively. Here, a lead-free hybrid double perovskite ((DETA)BiBr6/Cs2AgBiBr6, DCABB) was fabricated by uniformly dispersing 0D DETABiBr6 (DETA3+ = NH3+(CH2)2NH2+(CH2)2NH3+) in the matrix of 3D Cs2AgBiBr6. Benefited from the passivation of Br defects and resistance of water by DETA3+, the stability of DCABB improved in comparison to pristine 3D Cs2AgBiBr6. Moreover, the formation of DCABB increased the adsorption of O2 and the accumulation of photogenerated electrons on the surface of catalyst, consequently boosting the generation of active O2− and OH species. The DCABB displayed higher photocatalytic performance than its components in toluene selective oxidation under visible light illumination, achieving a toluene conversion of up to 100 %.