Synthesis and photocatalytic activity of bismuth carbonate micro-nanoplates

Vertically aligned faceted micro-nanoplates of bismuth carbonate (Bi2O2CO3) were successfully prepared by a free-surfactant/template hydrothermal method. The synthesized Bi2O2CO3 micro-nanostructures were characterized by XRD, FESEM, UV–vis absorption spectroscopy, and BET analysis. The photoactivity of Bi2O2CO3 micro-nanoplates were assessed using the organic pollutant crystal violet (CV) degradation under UV and artificial solar (AS) light irradiation. Electron transfer of Bi2O2CO3 was evaluated by photocurrent and EIS analysis. In addition, the possible growth and photodegradation mechanisms of the synthesized samples are briefly discussed.