Template-free microwave-assisted hydrothermal synthesis and photocatalytic performance of Bi6O6 (OH)3(NO3)3·1.5H2O nanosheets

Bi6O6(OH)3(NO3)3·1.5H2O nanosheets were successfully synthesized via microwave-assisted hydrothermal method and utilized for photocatalytic degradation of dyes in Water. The Bi6O6(OH)3(NO3)3 nanosheets with thicknesses of 50–60 nm were first synthesized by template-free microwave hydrothermal method. The as-prepared samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, BET surface area analysis, UV–vis reflectance spectrum and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Comparing with the samples synthesized via conventional hydrothermal method, the samples under microwave heating have the advantage of shorter reaction time, sheet-like morphology and larger surface area, which leads to more efficient photocatalytic degradation for dyes.

► The Bi6O6(OH)3(NO3)3·1.5H2O nanosheets are synthesized via microwave hydrothermal.
► The synthesis process of nanosheets is simple and template-free.
► The morphology of sample via microwave route is different from conventional route.
► The photocatalytic activity of microwave sample is higher than conventional sample.