Significant enhancement of piezoelectric photocatalytic activity in rare earth ions doped BiFeO3

This study focuses on enhancing the piezoelectric photocatalytic activity of BiFeO 3 through rare earth ion doping. By doping rare earth ions (La, Sm, Ce), the crystal structure, optical properties, and piezoelectric properties of BiFeO 3 are modified. The results show that the doping alters the rhombic structure, reduces the band gap, and enhances light absorption. A synergistic system combining ultraviolet − visible spectral irradiation and a high − frequency ultrasonic field was used. By monitoring the decomposition kinetics of Rhodamine B (RhB) and the generation pathways of free radicals, the multi-field coupling catalytic efficiency of piezoelectric semiconductor materials was systematically quantified. The doping significantly improves the degradation rate, with Bi 0.8 Sm 0.2 FeO 3 showing the best performance. The roles of different radicals in the degradation process are investigated, and the catalyst shows good stability and sustainability after multiple cycles.