Ultrathin nanoflakes constructed erythrocyte-like Bi2WO6 hierarchical architecture via anionic self-regulation strategy for improving photocatalytic activity and gas-sensing property

•Uniform erythrocyte-like Bi2WO6 hierarchical architecture is firstly constructed via anionic self-regulation strategy.•The new hierarchical architecture is assembled by unique ultrathin nanoflake with the thickness of ∼4.4 nm.•The erythrocyte-like hierarchical architecture can improve the photocatalytic activity and gas sensing property.•This work launches an exemplificative strategy for constructing other Bi-based oxide hierarchical architecture.

Uniform erythrocyte-like Bi2WO6 hierarchical architecture constructed by ultrathin nanoflakes (∼4.4 nm) is firstly obtained via an anionic self-regulation strategy without employing any additives at a facile hydrothermal process. The unique hierarchical architecture exhibits high specific surface area and abundant mesoporous distribution, which can provide more reaction active sites and molecule transport channels. The novel structure also facilitates efficiently transfer and separation of charge carriers. In consequence, the photocatalytic activity and gas sensing property are obviously improved relative to the typical Bi2WO6 microsphere. This work extends the development of Bi2WO6 hierarchical architecture as well as launches a simple, eco-friendly and exemplificative strategy for constructing other Bi-based oxide hierarchical architecture.

Graphical abstractUsing a simple, facile and eco-friendly anionic self-regulation strategy, a dual functional Bi2WO6 with novel erythrocyte-like architecture is firstly constructed via a hydrothermal process. The sample is self-assembled by ultrathin nanoflakes (∼4.4 nm), which obviously improves both photocatalytic activity and gas-sensing property compared with typical Bi2WO6 microsphere.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide