Novel Bi 2 WO 6 /ZnSnO 3 heterojunction for the ultrasonic-vibration-driven piezocatalytic degradation of RhB

• Published in: Environmental pollution (1987) 2023-02, Vol.319, p.120982
• Main Authors: Zhao, Chunran, Cai, Liye, Wang, Kaiqi, Li, Bingxin, Yuan, Shude, Zeng, Zihao, Zhao, Leihong, Wu, Ying, He, Yiming
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Catalysis; Ultrasonic Waves; Ultrasonics; Vibration
• ISSN: 1873-6424

This study designed and prepared a new piezoelectric catalytic nanomaterial, Bi WO /ZnSnO , and applied it in piezocatalytic water purification. Results indicated that the composite had superior piezocatalytic efficiency and stability in rhodamine B (RhB) degradation under ultrasonic vibration. The Bi WO /ZnSnO sample with 10% Bi WO had the optimum activity with a degradation rate of 2.15 h , which was 7.4 and 11.3 times that of ZnSnO and Bi WO , respectively. Various characterizations were conducted to study the morphology, structure, and piezoelectric properties of the Bi WO /ZnSnO composites and reveal the reasons for their improved piezocatalytic performance. Results showed that ZnSnO cubes were dispersed throughout the surface of Bi WO nanosheets, which enhanced the specific surface area and facilitated the piezocatalytic reaction. Additionally, type-II heterojunction structures formed at the contact interface of Bi WO and ZnSnO , driving the migration of piezoelectric-induced electrons and holes. Accordingly, the separation efficiency of charge carriers improved, and the piezoelectric catalytic activity was significantly enhanced. This study may provide a potential composite catalyst and a promising idea for the design of highly efficient piezoelectric catalyst.