Template-free synthesis of hierarchical constructed flower-like -Bi2O3 microspheres with photocatalytic performance

Step-wise self-assembled flower-like δ-Bi2O3 microspheres from nanoparticles to nanosheets to microspheres were fabricated via a simple hydrothermal process, using glycine and Bi (NO3)3·5H2O as starting materials without other additives. The crystal structures and morphologies of the as-obtained samples were characterised by X-ray powder diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscopy. The UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectrum of the sample showed the product has an intense absorption in UV light regions and an estimated bandgap 3.55 eV. Moreover, under UV-light irradiation the sample exhibited high photocatalytic behaviour for the degradation of rhodamine B dye and excellent stability, which possibly has a board application in wastewater disposal fields.