Functionalities and modification of sol–gel derived SiO₂–TiO₂ systems for advanced coatings and powders

Abstract

In this review, a comprehensive overview is given that covers the preparation, characterization, properties, and modification of sol–gel derived SiO₂–TiO₂ systems toward the generation of advanced coatings and powders with desirable properties. First, the fundamentals of the preparation and application of sol–gel derived multicomponent oxide coatings and powders are reviewed. Then, the basic physical and chemical properties of sol–gel derived SiO₂–TiO₂ coatings and powders are described. After that, the morphological and structural modification of sol–gel derived SiO₂–TiO₂ systems using organic polymers and surfactants, via their reaction in water vapor and hot water under external fields, are discussed. Finally, the advanced functionalities, such as superhydrophilicity, photocatalytic activity, micropatterning, and holographic recording, of the sol–gel derived SiO₂–TiO₂ coatings are demonstrated. In this context, the contributions of the author in this research field are also presented.