Crystallization mechanism and photocatalytic performance of vanadium-modified bismuth oxide through precipitation processes at room temperature

Well-crystallized bismuth oxides (Bi₂O₃) were synthesized through precipitation processes operating at room temperature. Two synthesis routes were used, which led to Bi₂O₃ products with completely different phase structures. The crystallization mechanisms of γ-Bi₂O₃ and δ-Bi₂O₃ in relation to the synthetic processes were discussed. The role of vanadium (V) ions and the doping limit on the structural modification were also investigated. The photocatalytic efficiencies of the V-modified γ-Bi₂O₃ and δ-Bi₂O₃ compared with TiO₂ P25 powder were discussed.