Abstract
Layered lanthanide tantalates and their ion-exchanged phases (MLnTa2O7, M = Cs, Rb, Na, and H; Ln = La, Pr, Nd, and Sm) were prepared to evaluate their photocatalytic activity for water splitting under UV irradiation. The optical band gap energy was dependent on the lanthanide, Ln, but negligibly affected by the monovalent interlayer cations, M. By contrast, the photocatalytic activity was strongly affected by not only Ln but also M; the highest activity was attained by a series of M = Rb with a sequence of Ln: Nd > Sm > La > Pr. The effect of Ln can be explained by the energy level and hybridization of the Ln 4f band, which was discussed based on the results of electronic structure calculations in our previous work. The ion exchanged phases (M = Na and H) having deformed hydrous layer structure were less active compared to anhydrous Rb and Cs phases, whereas the NiOx loading of the Na phase greatly enhances the activity. It seems that the high mobility of water molecules between the layers allows the interlayer sites to behave as active sites for the photocatalytic reaction over NiOx-loaded catalysts.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
