The phase regulation of Bi4O5I2 nanosheets through the controlled hydrolysis in polyhydric alcohol for the enhanced photocatalytic performances of BPA

Abstract

• Bi 4 O 5 I 2 were regulated via controlled hydrolysis of urea in polyhydric alcohol. • Polyhydric alcohol with proper viscosity is the key role of controlled hydrolysis. • Bi 4 O 5 I 2 with tuned band structure showed superior photodegradation activity. • The reaction rate constant of Bi 4 O 5 I 2 is almost 3 times than that of BiOI. In this study, the phase transition of Bi 4 O 5 I 2 was regulated via the controlled hydrolysis of urea in polyhydric alcohol. The systematic conditions of the controlled hydrolysis for Bi 4 O 5 I 2 phase transition were examined. Polyhydric alcohol solution with proper viscosity (such as EG, and mixture of EG and G), temperature over 180 °C, over 3 h, and tetrabutylammonium iodide (TBAI) over 4 mmol could contribute to the controlled hydrolysis of urea (1.0 g) for Bi 4 O 5 I 2 . The band structure of resulted Bi 4 O 5 I 2 was altered, resulting in superior photodegradation performances of BPA removal due to the efficient charge separation and transfer.