Synthesis, characterization, and photocatalytic properties of BiOBr catalyst

BiOBr photocatalyst was prepared by a facile hydrolysis method, and then characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, N2 sorption isotherms, and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. The as-prepared BiOBr photocatalyst was found to be a tetragonal crystal structure, homogeneous particles of fine ferrite plates, surface area of 32.19 m2/g, and band gap of 2.92 eV. The photocatalytic property and mechanism of BiOBr were investigated by the degradation of methylene orange (MO) in aqueous solution under xenon lamp irradiation. The results indicated that the optimum amount of BiOBr powder was 0.8 g/L for MO degradation under xenon lamp irradiation, and its catalytic performance was as good as that of P25-TiO2. The mechanism study showed that photogenerated holes and •OH played important roles in photocatalytic degradation. The photocatalytic degradation results of humic acids, methylene blue, and MO in aqueous solution further verified the high catalytic activity and non-selectivity of BiOBr.

Graphical abstractThe photocatalytic property and structural morphology of the as-prepared BiOBr semiconductor using a facile hydrolysis method for the photocatalytic degradation of organics in water. Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► The BiOBr potocatalyst was synthesized by a simple hydrolysis method. ► This method is an environmental friendly preparation method. ► This method does not need high temperature calcinations. ► The photocatalytic activity of as-prepared BiOBr is as good as P25-TiO2. ► Photogenerated h+ and ·OH play key roles in the photocatalytic degradation process.