One‐step solvothermal synthesis of Cu–Cu 2 O composite with improved photocatalytic activity under visible light irradiation

Microspheres‐like Cu–Cu 2 O composites were successfully fabricated through a facial one‐step solvothermal method. The phase and morphology of Cu‐Cu 2 O composites were characterised by X‐ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy. Also, the photodegradation experimental of methyl orange (MO) displayed that the as‐obtain Cu–Cu 2 O composites possess excellent photocatalytic activity. After 120 min visible light irradiation, the photodegradation rate of MO on pure Cu 2 O and Cu–Cu 2 O was up to 11.8 and 90.6%, respectively. Moreover, the photodegradation rate of MO on Cu–Cu 2 O was 19.5 times than that on pure Cu 2 O. The great photocatalytic activity of Cu–Cu 2 O composites might be ascribed to the appropriate amount of Cu, which could promote the transfer of photo‐generated electrons and restrain the recombination of electron–hole.