Ag-modified BiOX (X=Cl, Br and I) Plates for Photocatalytic Dye Removal

Ag-modified BiOX (X=Cl, Br and I) nanoplates were synthesized by an ion-exchange reaction. We examined the fundamental properties by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electron transmission microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction, UV-visible absorption, Fourier-transform infrared and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The adsorption and photocatalytic performances of the catalysts were tested with dyes under UV and visible light. A chemical scavenger method was employed to test the roles of active species (${\cdot}OH$, ${\cdot}O2-$ and h+) and understand photodegradation mechanism. Photoluminescence spectroscopy was used to examine ${\cdot}OH$ radical formation using terephthalic acid during photoirradiation.