Synthesis, crystal structure, and photocatalytic activity of the new three-layer aurivillius phases, Bi 2ASrTi 2TaO 12 ( A=Bi, La)

Abstract

Two new three-layer Aurivillius phases Bi 2 ASrTi 2TaO 12 ( A=Bi, La) have been synthesized. The detailed structure determination of Bi 2 ASrTi 2TaO 12 ( A=Bi, La) performed by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) and selected area electron microscopy (SAED) shows that they all crystallize in the space group I/4 mmm. UV–visible diffuse reflection spectrum of the prepared Bi 2 ASrTi 2TaO 12 ( A=Bi, La) indicates that it had absorption in the ultraviolet (UV) region. The photocatalytic activity of the Bi 2 ASrTi 2TaO 12 ( A=Bi, La) powders was evaluated by degradation of rhodamine B (RB) molecules in water under UV light irradiation. The results showed that Bi 2 ASrTi 2TaO 12 ( A=Bi, La) has high photocatalytic activity at room temperature. Therefore, the preparation and properties studies of Bi 2 ASrTi 2TaO 12 ( A=Bi, La) with a three-layer Aurivillius structure suggest potential future applications in photocatalysis.