| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 46593 | Applied Catalysis B: Environmental | 2011 | 10 Pages |
Er3+ doped Bi2MoO6 nanosheets with enhanced photocatalytic activity were synthesized for the first time using a simple hydrothermal method. The morphology of Bi2MoO6 can be controlled from nanosheets to nanowires by adjusting the pH values. The samples were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), photoluminescence spectra (PL) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Er3+ doped Bi2MoO6 nanosheets selectively exposed {0 1 0} facets as the main external surfaces and the nanowires grew along the (0 1 0) direction. The nanosheets were found to be highly active for photocatalytic degradation of dyes and phenol. The activities of the Er3+ doped Bi2MoO6 nanosheets were much superior to that of commercial Degussa P25. The effect of Er3+ on the photocatalytic activity of Bi2MoO6 was investigated in detail. The enhanced photocatalytic activity of Bi2MoO6 nanosheets can be attributed to the exposed {0 1 0} facets and the dopant Er3+ which can transform visible light into ultraviolet light.
Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Upconverter Er3+ doped Bi2MoO6 nanosheets were synthesized using a simple hydrothermal method. ► Bi2MoO6 nanosheets selectively exposed {0 1 0} facets at the main external surfaces. ► The photoactivities of the Er3+ doped Bi2MoO6 nanosheets were much superior to that of Degussa P25. ► The enhanced photocatalytic activity can be attributed to the abundantly exposed {0 1 0} facets and the dopant Er3+.
