Precursor-induced self-assembly of Bi5O7NO3 nanocrystals into superstructures and their distinct photocatalytic performance

Abstract

Self-assembly of Bi₅O₇NO₃ nanosheets (NS) and nanorods (NR) into booklets and bundles, respectively, has been realized by deliberately adjusting the precursor Bi(NO₃)₃ concentrations. The booklets were formed by the self-assembly of ca. 2 nm thin nanosheets and demonstrated improved photocatalytic activities as compared to the pristine nanosheets. The bundles were formed by the self-assembly of nanorods but showed worse photocatalytic activities than the pristine nanorods.