Compared with the conventional solution deposition methods used for the synthesis of composites, in situ controlled growth was employed to construct hierarchical MoS2/Bi2MoO6 composites with enhanced photocatalytic activity. In the reaction process, the preexfoliated layered MoS2 nanoslices acted as an excellent supporting matrix for the in situ growth of Bi2MoO6 nanoflakes, which in return inhibited the photocorrosion of MoS2 nanoslices. The obtained hierarchical MoS2/Bi2MoO6 composites exhibited significantly enhanced performance for photocatalytic oxidation of Rhodamine B compared with pure Bi2MoO6 under visible light irradiation due to the improved photogenerated charge separation, boosted catalytic active sites and light harvesting. To evaluate the photocatalytic system, the degradation process of Rhodamine B was also investigated. The active species trapping and control experiments indicated that the formed junctions between Bi2MoO6 and MoS2 improved charge transfer property, which was proved by the surface photovoltage spectroscopy, photoluminescence and electrochemical impedance measurements. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.