WO3 nanocrystals with tunable percentage of (0 0 1)-facet exposure

Orthorhombic WO3 nanocrystals with tunable percentage of (0 0 1)-facet exposure were synthesized by hydrothermal reaction using BF4− as the guiding agent. The preferable exposure of the high-energy (0 0 1) facets endows the nanocrystals with significantly enhanced photocatalytic activity as probed by photodegradation of Rhodamine B and the electron spin resonance techniques.

Orthorhombic WO3 nanocrystals with tunable percentage of (0 0 1)-facet exposure were synthesized. The preferable exposure of the high-energy (0 0 1) facets endows the nanocrystals with significantly enhanced photocatalytic activity. Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights▸ Orthorhombic WO3 nanocrystals. ▸ Novel high-energy (0 0 1)-facet exposure. ▸ Tunable percentage of (0 0 1)-facet exposure. ▸ Significantly enhanced photocatalytic activity.