Durable visible light self-cleaning surfaces imparted by TiO₂/SiO₂/GO photocatalyst

Abstract

This research intends to enhance the photocatalytic efficiency and durability of substrates coated with TiO2-based nanocomposites under visible light illumination. More specifically, TiO2/SiO2/graphene oxide nanocomposites are successfully sono-synthesized and sono-fabricated onto a polymeric fabric through a facile one-step method. The morphologies, phase structures and optical properties of the samples are studied. The photocatalytic activity of the functionalized samples is assessed through a gentian violet stain removal test and then photodecomposition of methylene blue under visible light, and tested again after 10 washes to check on its durability. It is corroborated that TiO2/SiO2/graphene oxide nanocomposites have shown significantly better visible light self-cleaning performance than just using the pure TiO2 alone. In addition, even after 10 washes, the samples virtually maintain the functionality. Herein, sono-synthesis of TiO2/SiO2/graphene oxide represents a remarkable step forward in visible light-driven self-cleaning treatment for flexible materials and, hence, holds a great potential for commercialization.

The UV-B protective effect of a SiO2 doped TiO2 thin film regulates pitx3 and sparc expression during embryonic development of zebrafish

“…The effect could be ascribed to the presence of silica particles that collectively increased the interactions between light and TiO 2 nanoparticles. 45,46…”

Using visible light to activate antiviral and antimicrobial properties of TiO2 nanoparticles in paints and coatings: focus on new developments for frequent-touch surfaces in hospitals

“…To improve the bonding of a nanomaterial coating containing TiO 2 and SiO 2 onto polyester cotton and its visible-light activation, Gao et al 132 synthesized TiO 2 /SiO 2 /graphene oxide nanocomposites and attached them onto the fabric using sonification (see Fig. 13 for the SEM images).…”

“…This indicates that stronger bonding between the fabrics and the nanocomposites was established during sonification, probably due to the generation of transient localized hot zones formed by the microturbulence and shock waves. 132 …”

“…Incorporating nanomaterials into textile surfaces has initiated the development of new advanced nanocomposite textile products. Preparing TiO 2 NPs containing textiles is relatively uncomplicated; however, insufficient anchoring of the TiO 2 NPs to certain fibers imposes complications regarding the leaching of the To improve the bonding of a nanomaterial coating containing TiO 2 and SiO 2 onto polyester cotton and its visible-light activation, Gao et al 132 synthesized TiO 2 / SiO 2 /graphene oxide nanocomposites and attached them onto the fabric using sonification (see Fig. 13 for the SEM images).…”

Photocatalytic Activity of Multicompound TiO2/SiO2 Nanoparticles

“…For example, 2% Al 2 O 3 -TiO 2 nanocomposite [11] for selective degradation of imazapyr showed a two-to three-fold improvement of photocatalytic activity compared to mesoporous TiO 2 , whereas TiO 2 -zeolite photocatalysts from metakaolin and rice husk ash [12] showed an enhanced photoactivity compared to powder TiO 2 . Alternatively, TiO 2 /SiO 2 /graphene oxide (GO) photocatalyst [13] demonstrated enhanced visible light photoactivity for self-cleaning surfaces resulting from synergetic action of TiO 2 and GO in which TiO 2 produces electron-hole pairs and GO quickly transfer them to the surface for redox reactions. Many reports have been devoted to doping TiO 2 doping with SiO 2 such as TiO 2 /SiO 2 nanocomposite [14,15] for efficient removal of organic pollutants.…”