Nano/microsized TiO₂ composite photocatalysts for environmental purification

Abstract

TiO₂ photocatalyst is one of the most important photocatalysts for practical use owing to its low toxicity, high chemical stability, natural abundance, and strong oxidation power. However, its low quantum efficiency which is derived from fast electron-charge recombination and its low decomposition rate against organic compounds in low concentration and/or low affinity for TiO₂ surface is problematic for environmental purification. To overcome these problems, functionalized photocatalysts that have a nano/microsized structure were prepared by combining TiO₂ and other materials in our study. A Z-scheme photocatalyst thin film, a TiO₂-coated porous glass composite with high adsorption capacity, and a TiO₂-coated stainless mesh for electric field-assisted photocatalysis were prepared using liquid and colloidal processes. This study reports the photocatalytic properties of these composites in air and water environments and their decomposition mechanisms.