Synthesis and photocatalytic performance of Bi2Fe4O9 microcrystals by ultrasonic assisted hydrothermal method

Bi₂Fe₄O₉ microcrystals with tunable morphologies were prepared through a synergistic combination of ultrasonic and hydrothermal methods. Different ultrasonic time had great impact on the crystallinity and morphology of Bi₂Fe₄O₉ powders. The SEM images showed that Bi₂Fe₄O₉ microcrystals with tunable morphologies from cubes, cuboid, to plates when ultrasonic time was from Oh, 3h, to 8h. And different ultrasonic time leads to different dominating facets. The morphology, as well as a proper band structure of the microcrystals, influenced its photocatalytic activity. The Bi₂Fe₄O₉ produced by ultrasonic assisted hydrothermal method exhibited enhanced photocatalytic activity; compared to catalysis by materials produced solely by hydrothermal routes. And an enhanced efficiency up to 70% for the sample under ultrasonic irradiation for 6h could be obtained with a bit amount of H₂O₂.