Synthesis of hierarchical m-BiVO4 particles via hydro-solvothermal method and their photocatalytic properties

A facile hydro-solvothermal method based on hydrothermal technique has been developed for the synthesis of monoclinic BiVO4 powders with hierarchical structures, using Bi(NO3)3·5H2O and NaVO3 as raw materials, and oleylamine as surfactant. The phase structure and morphology of as-prepared BiVO4 particles are characterized by X-ray diffraction, field scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscopy, respectively. The UV–vis absorption spectra and BET special surface areas are also measured. The influences of volume ratio of water/toluene and the pH value of aqueous phase on the morphology of BiVO4 particles have been investigated to obtain the different shapes. The possible mechanisms for the synthesis technology and shape self-assembly of BiVO4 are discussed. The results of the photocatalytic activity of as-prepared BiVO4 show that sphere-like and needle-like BiVO4 polycrystalline particles exhibit more excellent visible-light photocatalytic and satisfied recycling properties.