Simple solvothermal routes to synthesize nanocrystalline Bi2MoO6 photocatalysts with different morphologies

Nanocrystalline Bi 2 MoO 6 photocatalysts were successfully synthesized by conventional solvothermal and microwave–solvothermal routes, respectively. The prepared samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, BET surface area analysis, UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The samples have high surface areas in the range of 10–32 m 2 g −1 . Their average crystallite sizes are in the range of 16–35 nm. The absorption edge of the samples is at ∼491 nm, corresponding to a band gap energy of about 2.53 eV. Different morphologies with nanosheets and nanorods were also observed. The photocatalytic activities of Bi 2 MoO 6 photocatalysts were evaluated by the decomposition of Rhodamine B under visible-light irradiation ( λ > 420 nm). Nanocrystalline Bi 2 MoO 6 samples obtained via different conditions exhibited different photocatalytic performances. The effects of the crystallinity, specific surface area and morphology of the samples on the photocatalytic activities are also discussed.