CuO/BiVO4 composite photocatalysts were prepared by solution combustion synthesis method and impregnation technique. X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, field-emission scan electron microscopy and UV-vis diffusion reflectance spectra were used to identify the physical properties and photophysical properties of CuO/BiVO4 composite photocatalysts. The photocatalysts exhibit the enhanced photocatalytic properties for degradation of methylene blue under visible-light (lambda > 420 nm). The mechanism of improved photocatalytic activity is also discussed. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.