Simple solvothermal routes to synthesize nanocrystalline Bi2MoO6 photocatalysts with different morphologies

Nanocrystalline Bi2MoO6 photocatalysts were successfully synthesized by conventional solvothermal and microwave–solvothermal routes, respectively. The prepared samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, BET surface area analysis, UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The samples have high surface areas in the range of 10–32 m2 g−1. Their average crystallite sizes are in the range of 16–35 nm. The absorption edge of the samples is at ∼491 nm, corresponding to a band gap energy of about 2.53 eV. Different morphologies with nanosheets and nanorods were also observed. The photocatalytic activities of Bi2MoO6 photocatalysts were evaluated by the decomposition of Rhodamine B under visible-light irradiation (λ > 420 nm). Nanocrystalline Bi2MoO6 samples obtained via different conditions exhibited different photocatalytic performances. The effects of the crystallinity, specific surface area and morphology of the samples on the photocatalytic activities are also discussed.