Monomolecular-layer Ba5Ta4O15 nanosheets:: Synthesis and investigation of photocatalytic properties

Monomolecular-layer perovskite Ba5Ta4O15 nanosheets with hexagonal structure have been synthesized by a hydrothermal method. The thickness of the nanosheets is about 1.1 nm, which corresponds to a monolayer of BatTa4O15 molecules, with the lateral size ranging from 50 to 200 nm. The optimal conditions for the formation of the nanoshects are maintaining the reactants above 270 degrees C for 24 h. A dissolution-recrystallization mechanism is suggested based on observations of the factors that influence nanosheet formation, such as reaction time, temperature, and basicity. Formation of Ba5Ta4O15 nanosheets takes precedence over other nanostructures under high concentrations of OH- because the hindering effect of OH- ions on the c-axis growth is strong. Thus, the extended growth rate of polyhedrons on one monolayer is much faster than the superposition rate of the monolayer, and the crystal grows more easily along the a- and b-planes. The Ba5Ta4O15 nanosheets show a high photocatalytic activity in the degradation of Rhodamine B and gaseous formaldehyde. The layered perovskite probably affects the photocatalytic activity by promoting the charge separation and delocalization of photogenerated electrons and holes.