Photocatalytic properties of BiFeO3 (BFO) synthesized by microwave-assisted hydrothermal method

Bismuth ferrite, whose formula is BiFeO3 (BFO), is widely studied for its photovoltaic and photocatalytic properties. In this study, samples of this material were synthesized using the microwave-assisted hydrothermal method with the aim of measuring its ability to discolor contaminants present in water in previously formulated concentrations through photocatalysis. Photocatalysis is a process with great potential for applicability in the decontamination of effluents. The analysis process used a 1:1 molar ratio of bismuth nitrate to iron nitrate, with the addition of potassium hydroxide to the aqueous solution. Two samples were synthesized at different temperatures, specifically 140 degrees C and 160 degrees C. An X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that the synthesized samples were in an amorphous state. Photocatalytic tests were carried out to evaluate the ability of these materials to decolorize rhodamine B present in water in a previously known proportion. A sample synthesized at 140 degrees C successfully decolorized the solution within 60 min, providing its potential application in photocatalytic processes for decolorization of organic substances from wastewater. In turn, a sample synthesized at 160 degrees C discolored or contaminated in a slightly longer time. The samples were also subjected to a temperature of 750 degrees C until crystallinity was reached. However, photocatalytic tests with crystalline samples performed less well than amorphous samples.