A green, energy-effective mussel-inspired synthetic approach for the production of a Ag@AgCl photocatalyst mediated by the polymerization of dopamine through a one-pot method at room temperature is reported. The composites with tunable morphology and compositions via the controlling the initial pH value of polymerization and concentration of PVP exhibit controlled catalytic performance under visible light. The product formed in weak alkaline perform the highest activity, good stability and recyclability, due to the suitable proportion between Ag and AgCl. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.