Sheet-Like Binary AgBr-Bi24Br10O31 with Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity under Visible Light

AgBr-Bi24Br10O31 nanosheets were prepared by a facile single-step co-precipitation method at the presence of 1-Butyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide ([BMIM]Br) ionic liquid (IL) as the bromide source and template agent.  The products were well characterized by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX), Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy (DRS), nitrogen adsorption-desorption isotherms (BET), Fourier Transform InfraRed (FT-IR) spectroscopy, and Scanning Electron Microscopy (TEM). The XRD pattern well confirmed the presence of both Bi24O31Br10 and AgBr crystalline phases in the structure. In addition, the SEM micrographs indicated that the sample has sheet-like morphology, and the thickness of the sheets is below 100 nm. According to the photocatalytic experiments, the product was incredibly efficient for the degradation of Acid Blue 92 (AB92) solutions under visible light. Also, the results of recycling experiments implied the high capacity of the prepared nanosheets for the repeated treatment of the wastewater solution which is great of importance for being introduced a catalyst in practical applications.