The synthesis, characterization and photocatalytic activity of V(V), Pb(II), Ag(I) and Co(II)-doped Bi2O3

Bi2O3 samples doped with several transition metal ions (M–Bi2O3, where M = VV, PbII, AgI and CoII) were synthesized using a precipitation method in the presence of sodium dodecyl benzene sulphonate (SDBS). The compounds were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV–visible diffuse reflection spectroscopy (UV–vis DRS) and photoluminescence (PL). The monoclinic microcrystal samples displayed different morphology and visible-light harvesting character. The photocatalytic activity of the M–Bi2O3 compounds, evaluated by the extent of decolorization of Rhodamine B under visible light, followed the order: V(V)–Bi2O3 > Pb(II)–Bi2O3 > Ag(I)–Bi2O3 > Co(II)–Bi2O3 > undoped Bi2O3.