Graphene-wrapped bismuth oxychloride nanocomposites: Synthesis, characterization, and enhanced photodegradation of methylene blue

A series of bismuth oxychloride (BiOCI)-graphene (GR) nanocomposites were prepared by a solvothermal method. The obtained samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, ultraviolet-vis diffuse reflectance spectrum, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller surface areas, and Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer. Results showed that BiOCI in the composites exhibits a morphology of square-like nanoplates wrapped in GR sheets. The amount of GR influenced the crystalline, optical absorption ability, specific surface area, and adsorption property of the nanocomposites. High photocatalytic activity was observed for the degradation of the heteropolyaromatic dye methylene blue under ultraviolet irradiation. Additionally, the results indicated that there was an optimum GR amount of 30% for obtaining the highest photocatalytic activity. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved,