Exfoliated kaolinite nanolayers as an alternative photocatalyst with superb activity

In searching for alternative and abundant photocatalyst, exfoliated kaolinite nanolayers (nK) were prepared by a simple intercalation process. The effect of intercalating agents on the produced nK was studied by different instrumentations. XRD, FT-IR, and TEM confirm the exfoliation of kaolinite into nanolayers. Bandgap values were altered depending on intercalating agents as revealed by light absorption spectra. Photogenerated charge carriers observed through photoluminescence spectra. The produced nK applied for photodegradation of Rhodamine B dye (RhB) as an industrial model for wastewater treatment purposes. The results showed a complete photodegradation of RhB within a few minutes under UV with superb reaction kinetics. We refer the enhanced photocatalytic properties to the exposed metal oxide impurities on the surface of nK due to exfoliation. Performance tests revealed the reusability and stability of the prepared nK. This plentiful material is supposed to be a versatile alternative for the well-known photocatalysts with the possibility of large-scale production. Photodegradation mechanism of RhB is proposed.