The synthesis, characterization and photocatalytic activity of V(V), Pb(II), Ag(I) and Co(II)-doped Bi2O3

Bi2O3 samples doped with several transition metal ions (M-Bi2O3, where M = V-v Pb-II, Ag-I and Co-II) were synthesized using a precipitation method in the presence of sodium dodecyl benzene sulphonate (SDBS). The compounds were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV-visible diffuse reflection spectroscopy (UV-vis DRS) and photoluminescence (PL). The monoclinic microcrystal samples displayed different morphology and visible-light harvesting character. The photocatalytic activity of the M-Bi2O3 compounds, evaluated by the extent of decolorization of Rhodamine B under visible light, followed the order: V(V)-Bi2O3 > Pb(II)-Bi2O3 > Ag(I)-Bi2O3 > Co(II)-Bi2O3 > undoped Bi2O3. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.