Synthesis, characterization and photocatalytic properties of nanobelt-assembled flower-like Zn3(OH)2V2O7·2H2O microcrystals

3D hierarchical flower-like Zn3(OH)2V2O7·2H2O microcrystals have been fabricated in a high yield via a simple hydrothermal process in the presence of l-aspartic acid (l-Asp). The purity, crystalline phase and morphologies of the products were characterized by XRD, TEM and SEM. The SEM results indicate that the microflowers are self-assembled by numerous nanobelts with mean diameter of 100 nm. During the process, l-Asp is chosen as the complexing and surface-functionalizing agent. It is found that the amount of l-Asp and reaction time have significant effects on the morphology of the Zn3(OH)2V2O7·2H2O micro/nanostructures. The photocatalytic properties of Zn3(OH)2V2O7·2H2O were investigated by the decomposition of RhB under UV light irradiation and exhibit good photocatalytic activities.