Enhanced Efficiency of Electron–Hole Separation in Bi2O2CO3 for Photocatalysis via Acid Treatment

Article abstract of DOI:10.1002/cctc.201800101

We herein prepared defective Bi₂O₂CO₃ microspheres via a simple nitric acid treatment method. Upon generation from Bi₂O₂CO₃, electrons and holes were superbly separated with the existence of defects. Combined with the advantages of multiple scattering and reflection, a large surface area and increased range of visible-light absorption, the defective Bi₂O₂CO₃ dispalyed a high efficiency for the photodegradation of HCHO gases and methyl orange. The defective Bi₂O₂CO₃ also possessed a superior stability, which is important for practical applications. This work opens up new opportunities for the design and fabrication of high-activity Bi-based photocatalysts for environmental protection.