An Undoped, Single-Phase Oxide Photocatalyst Working under Visible Light

A novel photocatalyst, PbBi₂Nb₂O₉ has been discovered that shows high activities for degradation of organic pollutants, generation of photocurrent, and water decomposition into O₂ or H₂, all under visible right irradiation (λ ≥ 420 nm). This is the first example of an undoped, single-phase oxide photocatalyst that shows such reactivity. Its quantum yields are much higher than those for most of the previously reported materials, especially in water decomposition to generate oxygen (29%). Since it is an oxide, there is much less concern for stability under light irradiation.