(215d) Fabrication of Reusable Ag/BiVO4 for Water Disinfection

In this study photocatalytic disinfection of Escherichia coli in water under visible light (λ>400) was studied. Bismuth Vanadate with deposited silver particles (Ag/BiVO4) was fabricated and used as a photocatalyst. Silver nano particles were deposited on the surface of BiVO4 by simple photo-deposition technique. Ag/BiVO4 catalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electronic microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS). Silver NPs on the surface of BiVO4 enhance its activity significantly. It was found that a concentration of 1 mg/mL of 8% Ag/BiVO4 disinfect water completely after 3 hours. Silver nano particles on the BiVO4 were found out to be very stable and the catalyst sustained its activity in frequent usage. Due to very good precipitation performance of Ag/BiVO4, it is a very good candidate for usage water purification systems. Tests were done both in dark and under light to ensure the antibacterial activity is due to photocatalytic activity and not because of silver.