Fast preparation of Bi2GeO5 nanoflakes via a microwave-hydrothermal process and enhanced photocatalytic activity after loading with Ag nanoparticles

In this work, a facile and rapid microwave-assisted hydrothermal route has been developed to prepare Bi2GeO5 nanoflakes. Ag nanoparticles were subsequently deposited on the Bi2GeO5 nanoflakes by a photoreduction procedure. The phases and morphologies of the products were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectrum (XPS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. Photocatalytic experiments indicate that such Ag/Bi2GeO5 nanocomposite possesses higher photocatalytic activity for RhB degradation under UV light irradiation in comparison to pure Bi2GeO5. The amount of Ag in the nanocomposite affects the catalytic activity, and 3 wt% Ag showed the highest photodegradation efficiency. Moreover, the catalyst remains active after four consecutive tests. The present study provides a new strategy to design composite materials with enhanced photocatalytic activity.

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► Bi2GeO5 nanoflakes were successfully synthesized via a microwave-assisted solution-phase approach.
► Ag nanoparticles were deposited on the Bi2GeO5 nanoflakes by a photoreduction procedure.
► Catalytic activity of the Ag/Bi2GeO5 nanocomposite in the photo-degradation of rhodamine B (RhB) was much higher than that of pure Bi2GeO5.