Unique 1D/2D Bi2O2CO3 nanorod-Bi2WO6 nanosheet heterostructure: synthesis and photocatalytic performance

Abstract

A novel 1D/2D Bi₂O₂CO₃–Bi₂WO₆ heterostructure with a high quality interface was synthesized by high temperature calcination of Bi (OHC₂O₄)·2H₂O/Bi₂WO₆ precursors in CO₂. Bi₂WO₆ nanosheets were grown vertically on porous Bi₂O₂CO₃ rods by epitaxial growth. The 1D/2D Bi₂O₂CO₃–Bi₂WO₆ heterostructures display high photocatalytic activity to degrade salicylic acid, phenol and rhodamine B. This enhanced photocatalytic activity was attributed to the synergistic effects of the unique 1D/2D heterostructure and the formation of a high-quality interface between Bi₂O₂CO₃ and Bi₂WO₆. Radical scavenger experiments proved that ˙O₂⁻ and photogenerated holes played key roles during the photodegradation process. A simple and general route is offered in this study to synthesize 1D/2D heterostructures with excellent photocatalytic performance.