"Two-dimensional Bi2O2CO3 synthesized by electrical discharges in liquids for photocatalytic and nanoelectronic applications"

Abstract:

This work reports on the synthesis of Bi₂O₂CO₃ (Bismutite) ultrathin nanosheets by electrical discharges in liquids, involving the initiation of electrical discharges between two Bi electrodes submerged in either liquid nitrogen or water, resulting in identical nanostructures. Optical Emission Spectroscopy confirms the metallic nature of the discharge in both environments. Subsequently, nanosheets undergo rapid oxidation and carbonation upon exposure to air. The growth mechanism, related to the ledge mechanism, was proposed. Detailed crystallographic characterization of BOC nanosheets confirms their structure in space group I4/mmm (a=3.91 Å, c=13.77 Å). Catalytic performance of BOC nanosheets is found to be consistent with BOC obtained through alternative methods. Additionally, the electronic performance was explored, aiming to uncover their potential in nanodevice applications.