Customized synthesis of functional bismuth phosphate using different methods: photocatalytic and photoluminescence properties enhancement

In this work, bismuth phosphate photocatalysts have been obtained via co-precipitation and solid-state methods. The synthesized samples were calcinated at uniform temperature and were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive X-ray analysis and Raman spectroscopy. The photocatalytic activity of the synthesized samples was evaluated by the degradation of anionic and cationic organic dyes [Rhodamine B and Orange G] in aqueous medium under UV light irradiation (λ > 254 nm). The results showed that the synthesis technique considerably affects the morphology, structure, photoluminescent and photocatalytic process properties. Indeed, samples obtained through solid-state reaction approach exhibited higher catalytic activity in comparison with those prepared via co-precipitation method. Photoluminescence experiments revealed unexpected emissions in the green-orange range, with the presence of two bands characteristic of the two monoclinic phases of BiPO4.