Synthesize and study of structural, optical and photocatalytic properties of bismuth vanadate nanowires

In this research, bismuth vanadate (BiVO4) nanowires were made by hydrothermal method. To study the crystal structure, morphology, optical and photocatalytic properties of the samples, the X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and ultraviolet– visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis) were used. The XRD patterns were indicated that the bismuth vanadate nanowires have a monoclinic structure. From EDS and FTIR analysis, it was found that nanowires do not contain impurities. From FESEM image, it was found that the average length and diameter of nanowires are 2.3 micrometers and 83 nanometers, respectively. The UV-Vis analysis was revealed the bismuth vanadate nanowires have an optical gap of 2.20 eV, which is in the visible light range. Investigating the photocatalytic activity of bismuth vanadate nanowires in the photodegradation of Congo red showed that bismuth vanadate nanowires are suitable choice for photocatalytic use and decomposition of organic matter with the help of sunlight.