A new application field for BaFe12O19 used as visible light photocatalyst

Our human being firmly believed the existing materials possessed a wider utilisation range. It was very interesting therefore that finding new application for some outdated materials. Here, the semiconductor characteristics of an old ferrite, BaFe12O19 were explicated based on its optical properties. The direct bandgap energy was determined as 1.55 eV. The outstanding photocatalytic performance of BaFe12O19 was confirmed by Rhodamine B (RhB) photodegradation under visible light. The RhB solution could be totally photodegraded using BaFe12O19 powder after 3 h photocatalytic reaction. We hope this work can extend application field for BaFe12O19, and stimulate enthusiasm for continuous study these traditional ferrites, such as, BaFe12O19, SrFe12O19, and ZnFe2O4. And we sincerely hope that the concept about new application of old materials can be extensively spread and applied.