New Materials and Advanced Applications in Photocatalysis

Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

It is our pleasure to welcome you to this new, ambitious, and inspiring interdisciplinary Topic entitled “New Materials and Advanced Applications in Photocatalysis”. Photocatalysis has become one of the most rapidly developing fields of research due to emerging energy and environmental problems facing humanity. It is believed that well-designed, synthesized, and stable photocatalysts could both purify the environment and convert solar energy into fuels and electricity. However, multiple efforts must be taken to obtain efficient materials for commercial applications. Accordingly, numerous studies have been carried out on a range of topics, including (i) the design, synthesis, and characterization of materials, nanomaterials, and molecular photocatalysts, (ii) clarification of photocatalysis mechanisms, (iv) application of co-catalysts, nanocomposites, organic–inorganic hybrids, bioinspired materials, and heterojunctions, (v) photoreactor design and modeling, and (vi) potential scale-up and commercialization of photocatalytic reactions. In addition, the 21st century is also bringing a wide plethora of novel potential research fields where photocatalysis may play a significant role, such as nanomedicine, circular and sustainable economy, green chemistry, or green energy production. Therefore, our aim with this interdisciplinary Topic issue is to gather contributions from a significant number of MPDI journals such as Catalysts, Materials, Nanomaterials, Molecules and Photochem, highlighting various aspects of photocatalysis. We look forward to receiving your contributions (both original research papers and reviews) as soon as possible to present your excellent findings to a broad audience via open access publication and provide the research community with new perspectives on photocatalysis and their developing materials and applications.

Dr. Jose L. Hueso
Prof. Dr. Ewa Kowalska
Prof. Dr. Zhishun Wei
Topic Editors

Keywords

Participating Journals

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Catalysts catalysts	3.9	6.3	2011	14.3 Days	CHF 2700
Materials materials	3.4	5.2	2008	13.9 Days	CHF 2600
Molecules molecules	4.6	6.7	1996	14.6 Days	CHF 2700
Nanomaterials nanomaterials	5.3	7.4	2010	13.6 Days	CHF 2900
Photochem photochem	-	-	2021	23.4 Days	CHF 1000

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Published Papers (17 papers)

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32 pages, 9982 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Preparation and Property Characterization of Eu₂SmSbO₇/ZnBiEuO₄ Heterojunction Photocatalysts and Photocatalytic Degradation of Chlorpyrifos under Visible Light Irradiation

by Jingfei Luan, Yichun Wang, Ye Yao, Liang Hao, Jun Li and Yu Cao

Catalysts 2024, 14(2), 144; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal14020144 - 15 Feb 2024

Viewed by 1031

Abstract

Eu₂SmSbO₇ and ZnBiEuO₄ were synthesized for the first time using the hydrothermal method. Eu₂SmSbO₇/ZnBiEuO₄ heterojunction photocatalyst (EZHP) was synthesized for the first time using the solvothermal method. The crystal cell parameter of Eu₂ [...] Read more.

Eu₂SmSbO₇ and ZnBiEuO₄ were synthesized for the first time using the hydrothermal method. Eu₂SmSbO₇/ZnBiEuO₄ heterojunction photocatalyst (EZHP) was synthesized for the first time using the solvothermal method. The crystal cell parameter of Eu₂SmSbO₇ was 10.5547 Å. The band gap width of Eu₂SmSbO₇ was measured and found to be 2.881 eV. The band gap width of ZnBiEuO₄ was measured and found to be 2.571 eV. EZHP efficiently degraded the pesticide chlorpyrifos under visible light irradiation (VLID). After VLID of 160 min, the conversion rate of the chlorpyrifos concentration reached 100%, while the conversion rate of the total organic carbon (TOC) concentration was 98.02% using EZHP. After VLID of 160 min, the photocatalytic degradation conversion rates of chlorpyrifos using EZHP were 1.13 times, 1.19 times, and 2.84 times those using Eu₂SmSbO₇, ZnBiEuO₄, and nitrogen-doped titanium dioxide (N-doped TiO₂), respectively. The photocatalytic activity could be ranked as follows: EZHP > Eu₂SmSbO₇ > ZnBiEuO₄ > N-doped TiO₂. The conversion rates of chlorpyrifos were 98.16%, 97.03%, 96.03%, and 95.06% for four cycles of experiments after VLID of 160 min using EZHP. This indicated that EZHP was stable and could be reused. In addition, the experiments with the addition of capture agents demonstrated that the oxidation removal ability of three oxidation free radicals for degrading chlorpyrifos obeyed the following order: hydroxyl radical > superoxide anion > holes. This study examined the intermediates of chlorpyrifos during the photocatalytic degradation of chlorpyrifos, and a degradation path was proposed, at the same time, the degradation mechanism of chlorpyrifos was revealed. This study provides a scientific basis for the development of efficient heterojunction photocatalysts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Materials and Advanced Applications in Photocatalysis)

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17 pages, 5179 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Physicochemical Properties of Tungsten Trioxide Photoanodes Fabricated by Wet Coating of Soluble, Particulate, and Mixed Precursors

by Valli Kamala Laxmi Ramya Chittoory, Marketa Filipsika, Radim Bartoš, Marcela Králová and Petr Dzik

Photochem 2024, 4(1), 111-127; https://doi.org/10.3390/photochem4010006 - 01 Feb 2024

Viewed by 602

Abstract

Advanced oxidation processes are emerging technologies for the decomposition of organic pollutants in various types of water by harnessing solar energy. The purpose of this study is to examine the physicochemical characteristics of tungsten(VI) oxide (WO₃) photoanodes, with the aim of [...] Read more.

Advanced oxidation processes are emerging technologies for the decomposition of organic pollutants in various types of water by harnessing solar energy. The purpose of this study is to examine the physicochemical characteristics of tungsten(VI) oxide (WO₃) photoanodes, with the aim of enhancing oxidation processes in the treatment of water. The fabrication of WO₃ coatings on conductive fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) substrates was achieved through a wet coating process that utilized three different liquid formulations: a dispersion of finely milled WO₃ particles, a fully soluble WO₃ precursor (acetylated peroxo tungstic acid), and a combination of both (applying a brick-and-mortar strategy). Upon subjecting the WO₃ coatings to firing at a temperature of 450 °C, it was observed that their properties exhibited marked variations. The fabricated photoanodes are examined using a range of analytical techniques, including profilometry, thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and voltammetry. The experimental data suggest that the layers generated through the combination of particulate ink and soluble precursor (referred to as the brick-and-mortar building approach) display advantageous physicochemical properties, rendering them suitable for use as photoanodes in photoelectrochemical cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Materials and Advanced Applications in Photocatalysis)

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16 pages, 5728 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Enhanced Degradation of Ethylene in Thermo-Photocatalytic Process Using TiO₂/Nickel Foam

by Maciej Trzeciak, Piotr Miądlicki and Beata Tryba

Materials 2024, 17(1), 267; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17010267 - 04 Jan 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 681

Abstract

The photocatalytic decomposition of ethylene was performed under UV-LED irradiation in the presence of nanocrystalline TiO₂ (anatase, 15 nm) supported on porous nickel foam. The process was conducted in a high-temperature chamber with regulated temperature from ambient to 125 °C, under a [...] Read more.

The photocatalytic decomposition of ethylene was performed under UV-LED irradiation in the presence of nanocrystalline TiO₂ (anatase, 15 nm) supported on porous nickel foam. The process was conducted in a high-temperature chamber with regulated temperature from ambient to 125 °C, under a flow of reacted gas (ethylene in synthetic air, 50 ppm, flow rate of 20 mL/min), with simultaneous FTIR measurements of the sample surface. Ethylene was decomposed with a higher efficiency at elevated temperatures, with a maximum of 28% at 100–125 °C. The nickel foam used as support for TiO₂ enhanced ethylene decomposition at a temperature of 50 °C. However, at 50 °C, the stability of ethylene decomposition was not maintained in the following reaction run, but it was at 100 °C. Photocatalytic measurements conducted in the presence of certain radical scavengers indicated that a higher efficiency of ethylene decomposition was obtained due to the improved separation of charge carriers and the increased formation of superoxide anionic radicals, which were formed at the interface of the thermally activated nickel foam and TiO₂. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Materials and Advanced Applications in Photocatalysis)

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26 pages, 17917 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Study of the Composition and Properties of Bivalve Mollusk Shells as Promising Bio-Indifferent Materials for Photocatalytic Applications (Example of Practical Use)

by Aleksey V. Zaitsev and Ivan A. Astapov

Catalysts 2024, 14(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal14010016 - 24 Dec 2023

Viewed by 1027

Abstract

This paper studies the composition and properties of shells of bivalve mollusks (Crenomytilus grayanus, Callista brevisiphonata, and Mizuhopecten yessoensis) from coastal discharges with a view to the possibility of their use in photocatalytic water treatment systems. The clam shells are considered [...] Read more.

This paper studies the composition and properties of shells of bivalve mollusks (Crenomytilus grayanus, Callista brevisiphonata, and Mizuhopecten yessoensis) from coastal discharges with a view to the possibility of their use in photocatalytic water treatment systems. The clam shells are considered in terms of application in the form of a powder material as a precursor for creating photocatalysts, and also as a carrier of photocatalytic coatings. It was shown that the main phase composing the shell material was calcium carbonate in two crystallographic modifications—calcite and aragonite. The presence of inorganic impurities in all studied clam shells did not exceed one mass percent. The main share was made up of elements included in the composition of calcium carbonate, which confirmed the high bio-indifference of the materials under study. Depending on the physiological and environmental features of the structure of clam shells, different contents of the organic component in their composition were observed. The granulometric characteristics of crushed clam shells (average diameter, specific surface area, and distribution modality) were studied. It was shown that the maximum values of bending strength of 5 MPa and compressive strength of 2 MPa are characterized by Mizuhopecten yessoensis shells with the lowest porosity of 2.91%. The features of sorption and photosorption processes of both whole and crushed shells in relation to four organic dyes at different temperatures and degrees of illumination were studied. Based on crushed shells of Mizuhopecten Yessoensis and titanium dioxide, functional materials (Ca_xTi_yO_z) were obtained, and their morphology and photocatalytic properties were studied. An example of the practical use of clam shells as a carrier of a photocatalytic coating is given. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Materials and Advanced Applications in Photocatalysis)

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16 pages, 3286 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Investigation of the Self-Cleaning Property of Photocatalytic Coatings at a Laboratory Scale

by Julie Hot, Kevin Castelló Lux and Erick Ringot

Photochem 2023, 3(4), 461-476; https://doi.org/10.3390/photochem3040028 - 25 Nov 2023

Viewed by 724

Abstract

Self-cleaning products are commercially available to protect surfaces against soiling and avoid the high consumption of energy and chemical detergents necessary for cleaning. They are based on semiconductor oxides, mostly titanium dioxide (TiO₂), which induce photocatalytic oxidation activity and superhydrophilicity. Therefore, [...] Read more.

Self-cleaning products are commercially available to protect surfaces against soiling and avoid the high consumption of energy and chemical detergents necessary for cleaning. They are based on semiconductor oxides, mostly titanium dioxide (TiO₂), which induce photocatalytic oxidation activity and superhydrophilicity. Therefore, we present an experimental procedure at a lab scale to assess the self-cleaning ability of various photocatalytic coatings (five TiO₂-based commercial products and one lab-grade zinc oxide (ZnO) product) applied to mortar surfaces. The samples were artificially stained with three types of soiling: Congo red dye, diesel soot, and motor oil. They were exposed to the environmental cycle of UV illumination and water flow for two weeks and the changes in stain colors were first assessed with visual inspection. Then, spectrophotometry measurements were conducted before and after the self-cleaning experiment to calculate the color differences for each stain in the CIELab color space data. In addition, the coatings were characterized via X-ray diffraction analyses and water contact angle measurements. Results highlighted color changes for each stain and higher wettability (induced by OH radicals) of the coated surfaces, which favored surface washing and thus stain removal. Light also had a positive effect on the attenuation of the stains, particularly for the Congo red dye. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Materials and Advanced Applications in Photocatalysis)

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17 pages, 9368 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

New 5,5-(1,4-Phenylenebis(methyleneoxy)diisophthalic Acid Appended Zn(II) and Cd(II) MOFs as Potent Photocatalysts for Nitrophenols

by Hui-Shi Bin, Hai Hu, Jun Wang, Lu Lu, Mohd Muddassir, Devyani Srivastava, Ratna Chauhan, Yu Wu, Xiaoxiong Wang and Abhinav Kumar

Molecules 2023, 28(20), 7180; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28207180 - 19 Oct 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 969

Abstract

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are peculiar multimodal materials that find photocatalytic applications for the decomposition of lethal molecules present in the wastewater. In this investigation, two new d¹⁰-configuration-based MOFs, [Zn₂(L)(H₂O)(bbi)] (1) and [Cd₂(L)(bbi)] ( [...] Read more.

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are peculiar multimodal materials that find photocatalytic applications for the decomposition of lethal molecules present in the wastewater. In this investigation, two new d¹⁰-configuration-based MOFs, [Zn₂(L)(H₂O)(bbi)] (1) and [Cd₂(L)(bbi)] (2) (5,5-(1,4-phenylenebis(methyleneoxy)diisophthalic acid (H₂L) and 1,1′-(1,4-butanediyl)bis(imidazole) (bbi)), have been synthesized and characterized. The MOF 1 displayed a (4,6)-connected (3.4³.5²)(3².4⁴.5².6⁶.7) network topology, while 2 had a (3,10)-connected network with a Schläfli symbol of (4¹⁰.5¹¹.6²².7²)(4³)₂. These MOFs have been employed as photocatalysts to photodegrade nitrophenolic compounds, especially p-nitrophenol (PNP). The photocatalysis studies reveal that 1 displayed relatively better photocatalytic performance than 2. Further, the photocatalytic efficacy of 1 has been assessed by altering the initial PNP concentration and photocatalyst dosage, which suggest that at 80 ppm PNP concentration and at its 50 mg concentration the MOF 1 can photo-decompose around 90.01% of PNP in 50 min. Further, radical scavenging experiments reveal that holes present over 1 and ·OH radicals collectively catalyze the photodecomposition of PNP. In addition, utilizing density of states (DOS) calculations and Hirshfeld surface analyses, a plausible photocatalysis mechanism for nitrophenol degradation has been postulated. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Materials and Advanced Applications in Photocatalysis)

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20 pages, 4578 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Bismuth Tungstate Nanoplates—Vis Responsive Photocatalyst for Water Oxidation

by Tamer M. Khedr, Said M. El-Sheikh and Ewa Kowalska

Nanomaterials 2023, 13(17), 2438; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13172438 - 28 Aug 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1221

Abstract

The development of visible-light-responsive (VLR) semiconductor materials for effective water oxidation is significant for a sustainable and better future. Among various candidates, bismuth tungstate (Bi₂WO₆; BWO) has attracted extensive attention because of many advantages, including efficient light-absorption ability, appropriate [...] Read more.

The development of visible-light-responsive (VLR) semiconductor materials for effective water oxidation is significant for a sustainable and better future. Among various candidates, bismuth tungstate (Bi₂WO₆; BWO) has attracted extensive attention because of many advantages, including efficient light-absorption ability, appropriate redox properties (for O₂ generation), adjustable morphology, low cost, and profitable chemical and optical characteristics. Accordingly, a facile solvothermal method has been proposed in this study to synthesize two-dimensional (2D) BWO nanoplates after considering the optimal preparation conditions (solvothermal reaction time: 10–40 h). To find the key factors of photocatalytic performance, various methods and techniques were used for samples’ characterization, including XRD, FE-SEM, STEM, TEM, HRTEM, BET-specific surface area measurements, UV/vis DRS, and PL spectroscopy, and photocatalytic activity was examined for water oxidation under UV and/or visible-light (vis) irradiation. Famous commercial photocatalyst–P25 was used as a reference sample. It was found that BWO crystals grew anisotropically along the {001} basal plane to form nanoplates, and all properties were controlled simultaneously by tuning the synthesis time. Interestingly, the most active sample (under both UV and vis), prepared during the 30 h solvothermal reaction at 433 K (BWO–30), was characterized by the smallest specific surface area and the largest crystals. Accordingly, it is proposed that improved crystallinity (which hindered charge carriers’ recombination, as confirmed by PL), efficient photoabsorption (using the smallest bandgap), and 2D mesoporous structure are responsible for the best photocatalytic performance of the BWO–30 sample. This report shows for the first time that 2D mesoporous BWO nanoplates might be successfully prepared through a facile template-free solvothermal approach. All the above-mentioned advantages suggest that nanostructured BWO is a prospective candidate for photocatalytic applications under natural solar irradiation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Materials and Advanced Applications in Photocatalysis)

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16 pages, 6198 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Photocatalysts Based on Graphite-like Carbon Nitride with a Low Content of Rhodium and Palladium for Hydrogen Production under Visible Light

by Angelina V. Zhurenok, Danila B. Vasichenko, Semen N. Berdyugin, Evgeny Yu. Gerasimov, Andrey A. Saraev, Svetlana V. Cherepanova and Ekaterina A. Kozlova

Nanomaterials 2023, 13(15), 2176; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13152176 - 26 Jul 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 873

Abstract

In this study, we proposed photocatalysts based on graphite-like carbon nitride with a low content (0.01–0.5 wt.%) of noble metals (Pd, Rh) for hydrogen evolution under visible light irradiation. As precursors of rhodium and palladium, labile aqua and nitrato complexes [Rh₂(H [...] Read more.

In this study, we proposed photocatalysts based on graphite-like carbon nitride with a low content (0.01–0.5 wt.%) of noble metals (Pd, Rh) for hydrogen evolution under visible light irradiation. As precursors of rhodium and palladium, labile aqua and nitrato complexes [Rh₂(H₂O)₈(μ-OH)₂](NO₃)₄∙4H₂O and (Et₄N)₂[Pd(NO₃)₄], respectively, were proposed. To obtain metallic particles, reduction was carried out in H₂ at 400 °C. The synthesized photocatalysts were studied using X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, UV–Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The activity of the photocatalysts was tested in the hydrogen evolution from aqueous and aqueous alkaline solutions of TEOA under visible light with a wavelength of 428 nm. It was shown that the activity for the 0.01–0.5% Rh/g-C₃N₄ series is higher than in the case of the 0.01–0.5% Pd/g-C₃N₄ photocatalysts. The 0.5% Rh/g-C₃N₄ sample showed the highest activity per gram of catalyst, equal to 3.9 mmol g_cat^–1 h^–1, whereas the most efficient use of the metal particles was found over the 0.1% Rh/g-C₃N₄ photocatalyst, with the activity of 2.4 mol per gram of Rh per hour. The data obtained are of interest and can serve for further research in the field of photocatalytic hydrogen evolution using noble metals as cocatalysts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Materials and Advanced Applications in Photocatalysis)

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20 pages, 1297 KiB  

Open AccessReview

Non-Noble Metal and Nonmetallic Plasmonic Nanomaterials with Located Surface Plasmon Resonance Effects: Photocatalytic Performance and Applications

by Rou Li, Xianfeng Wang and Ming Chen

Catalysts 2023, 13(6), 940; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13060940 - 26 May 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2066

Abstract

Photocatalysts with located surface plasmon resonance effects (LSPRs) have been studied in recent years due to their superior light harvesting capacity and photocatalytic performance in solving environmental problems and energy shortages. Plasmonic-noble-based photocatalysts are limited in terms of their practical application on account [...] Read more.

Photocatalysts with located surface plasmon resonance effects (LSPRs) have been studied in recent years due to their superior light harvesting capacity and photocatalytic performance in solving environmental problems and energy shortages. Plasmonic-noble-based photocatalysts are limited in terms of their practical application on account of their high cost, fixed plasma frequency, and low abundance. In order to solve these shortcomings, non-noble metal and nonmetallic plasmonic photocatalysts with LSPRs and advantages such as a lower cost and wider light adsorption range from the UV to NIR region have been developed. This paper reviews the recent development of non-noble metal and nonmetallic plasmonic photocatalysts and advances the research direction of plasmonic photocatalysts to achieve high photocatalytic activity and stability, providing guidance for photocatalysis to solve environmental problems and energy shortages. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Materials and Advanced Applications in Photocatalysis)

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12 pages, 2995 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Two-Dimensional Sb Modified TiO₂ Nanorod Arrays as Photoanodes for Efficient Solar Water Splitting

by Jie Gao, Shengqi Zhang, Xiaoqing Ma, Yi Sun and Xiaoyan Zhang

Nanomaterials 2023, 13(7), 1293; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13071293 - 06 Apr 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1799

Abstract

As one of the widely studied semiconductor materials, titanium dioxide (TiO₂) exhibits high photoelectrochemical (PEC) water-splitting performance as well as high chemical and photo stability. However, limited by a wide band gap and fast electron-hole recombination rate, the low solar-to-hydrogen conversion [...] Read more.

As one of the widely studied semiconductor materials, titanium dioxide (TiO₂) exhibits high photoelectrochemical (PEC) water-splitting performance as well as high chemical and photo stability. However, limited by a wide band gap and fast electron-hole recombination rate, the low solar-to-hydrogen conversion efficiency remains a bottleneck for the practical application of TiO₂-based photoelectrodes. To improve the charge separation and water oxidation efficiency of TiO₂ photoanodes, antimonene, a two-dimensional (2D) material obtained by liquid-phase exfoliation, was assembled onto TiO₂ nanorod arrays (TNRAs) by a simple drop-coating assembly process. PEC measurements showed that the resulting 2D Sb/TiO₂ photoelectrode displayed an enhanced photocurrent density of about 1.32 mA cm⁻² in 1.0 M KOH at 0.3 V vs. Hg/HgO, which is ~1.65 times higher than that of the pristine TNRAs. Through UV-Vis absorption and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements, it was possible to ascribe the enhanced PEC performances of the 2D Sb/TiO₂ photoanode to increased absorption intensity in the visible light region, and improved interfacial charge-transfer kinetics in the 2D Sb/TiO₂ heterojunction, which promotes electron-hole separation, transfer, and collection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Materials and Advanced Applications in Photocatalysis)

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14 pages, 1886 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Photocatalytic Activities of g-C₃N₄ (CN) Treated with Nitric Acid Vapor for the Degradation of Pollutants in Wastewater

by Ruishuo Li, Bingquan Wang and Rui Wang

Materials 2023, 16(6), 2177; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16062177 - 08 Mar 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1158

Abstract

In this article, we reported a novel setup treatment using nitric acid vapor to treat g-C₃N₄ (CN). By treatment with nitric acid vapour, the basic structure of the CN has not been destroyed. These adoptive treatments enhanced the photocatalytic performance [...] Read more.

In this article, we reported a novel setup treatment using nitric acid vapor to treat g-C₃N₄ (CN). By treatment with nitric acid vapour, the basic structure of the CN has not been destroyed. These adoptive treatments enhanced the photocatalytic performance of CN and were reflected in the elimination of rhodamine B (RhB) as well as tetracycline hydrochloride (TC). In comparison to CN, CN-6 demonstrated the highest photocatalytic yield for the breakdown of RhB (99%, in 20 min). Moreover, the excellent reuse of CN-6 for breaking down RhB was also demonstrated. This clearly demonstrated that treatment with nitric acid vapor promoted a blue shift, positively extended its valence band position, and increased the oxidizability of the holes. This also caused CN to disperse better into the aqueous phase, introducing more oxygen-containing functional groups. Thus, treatment with nitric acid vapor has the potential to be applied to delaminate the CN in order to enhance photocatalytic activity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Materials and Advanced Applications in Photocatalysis)

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17 pages, 2626 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Facile Zn and Ni Co-Doped Hematite Nanorods for Efficient Photocatalytic Water Oxidation

by Joan Talibawo, Pannan I. Kyesmen, Marie C. Cyulinyana and Mmantsae Diale

Nanomaterials 2022, 12(17), 2961; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12172961 - 27 Aug 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1633

Abstract

In this work, we report the effect of zinc (Zn) and nickel (Ni) co-doping of hydrothermally synthesized hematite nanorods prepared on fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) substrates for enhanced photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting. Seeded hematite nanorods (NRs) were facilely doped with a fixed concentration [...] Read more.

In this work, we report the effect of zinc (Zn) and nickel (Ni) co-doping of hydrothermally synthesized hematite nanorods prepared on fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) substrates for enhanced photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting. Seeded hematite nanorods (NRs) were facilely doped with a fixed concentration of 3 mM Zn and varied concentrations of 0, 3, 5, 7, and 9 mM Ni. The samples were observed to have a largely uniform morphology of vertically aligned NRs with slight inclinations. The samples showed high photon absorption within the visible spectrum due to their bandgaps, which ranged between 1.9–2.2 eV. The highest photocurrent density of 0.072 mA/cm² at 1.5 V vs. a reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) was realized for the 3 mM Zn/7 mM Ni NRs sample. This photocurrent was 279% higher compared to the value observed for pristine hematite NRs. The Mott–Schottky results reveal an increase in donor density values with increasing Ni dopant concentration. The 3 mM Zn/7 mM Ni NRs sample produced the highest donor concentration of 2.89 × 10¹⁹ (cm⁻³), which was 2.1 times higher than that of pristine hematite. This work demonstrates the role of Zn and Ni co-dopants in enhancing the photocatalytic water oxidation of hematite nanorods for the generation of hydrogen. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Materials and Advanced Applications in Photocatalysis)

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12 pages, 3231 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Free Cyanide Photocatalytic Oxidation by rGO/TiO₂ P25 Composites

by Elim Albiter, Jose M. Barrera-Andrade, Lina A. Calzada, Jesús García-Valdés, Miguel A. Valenzuela and Elizabeth Rojas-García

Materials 2022, 15(15), 5284; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15155284 - 30 Jul 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1554

Abstract

Graphene-TiO₂ composites have been investigated in various photocatalytic reactions showing successful synergy compared to pristine TiO₂. In the present work, graphene oxide (GO) was synthesized by the Hummers method and then reduced graphene oxide-TiO₂ composites (rGO/TiO₂) were [...] Read more.

Graphene-TiO₂ composites have been investigated in various photocatalytic reactions showing successful synergy compared to pristine TiO₂. In the present work, graphene oxide (GO) was synthesized by the Hummers method and then reduced graphene oxide-TiO₂ composites (rGO/TiO₂) were obtained by an in situ GO photoreduction route. X-ray diffraction, FTIR, Raman, UV–vis DRS, and photoluminescence were the main characterization techniques. The obtained composites containing 1 and 3 wt.% rGO were evaluated in the cyanide (50 mg/L) oxidation and Au-cyanide complex (300 mg/L) degradation under UV-A light. The composites showed higher photocatalytic activity than TiO₂, mainly with the 1% rGO content. Cyanate and gold nanoparticles, deposited on the photocatalyst’s surface, were the main byproducts during the photocatalyst assessment. The improved photocatalytic activity of the composites was attributed to a higher rate of electron transfer and a lower rate of charge recombination due to the chemical interaction of rGO with TiO₂. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Materials and Advanced Applications in Photocatalysis)

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12 pages, 1568 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Pharmaceutical Micropollutant Treatment with UV–LED/TiO₂ Photocatalysis under Various Lighting and Matrix Conditions

by Monika Snowdon, Robert Liang, Jocelyn C. Van Leeuwen, Olivia Schneider, Abrar Khan, Lena C. M. Li Chun Fong, Norman Y. Zhou and Mark R. Servos

Photochem 2022, 2(3), 503-514; https://doi.org/10.3390/photochem2030035 - 01 Jul 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1494

Abstract

The persistence of pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) in water has been a cause for concern for several years. Many studies have successfully used TiO₂/UV photocatalysis to remove these compounds from water. In order to optimize these systems for large-scale [...] Read more.

The persistence of pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) in water has been a cause for concern for several years. Many studies have successfully used TiO₂/UV photocatalysis to remove these compounds from water. In order to optimize these systems for large-scale water treatment, the effects of the reaction matrix, methods to improve energy efficiency, and methods for easy catalyst separation must be considered. The following study examines the photocatalytic degradation of a cocktail of 18 PPCPs using a porous titanium–titanium dioxide membrane and the effect of solution pH on kinetic rate constants. The addition of methanol to the reaction—commonly used as a carrier solvent—had a significant effect on kinetic rate constants even at low concentrations. Solution pH was also found to influence kinetic rate constants. Compounds had higher kinetic rate constants when they were oppositely charged to the membrane at experimental pH as opposed to similarly charged, suggesting that electrostatic forces have a significant effect. The controlled periodic illumination of UV–LEDs was also investigated to increase photonic efficiency. The dual-frequency light cycle used did not cause a decrease in degradation for many compounds, successfully increasing the photonic efficiency without sacrificing performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Materials and Advanced Applications in Photocatalysis)

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13 pages, 3531 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Characteristics of Doped TiO₂ Nanoparticle Photocatalysts Prepared by the Rotten Egg White

by Chung-Ming Lu, Raju Kumar Sharma, Pin-Yun Lin, Yi-Hsun Huang, Jung-Sheng Chen, Wen-Chien Lee and Chien-Yen Chen

Materials 2022, 15(12), 4231; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15124231 - 15 Jun 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1373

Abstract

In this study, expired egg white was used as a template, and a sol–gel method was employed to prepare pure-phase TiO₂ nano-powder and mixed-phase powders doped with NaF and NaI. The influences of different calcination temperatures, doping elements, and doping amounts during [...] Read more.

In this study, expired egg white was used as a template, and a sol–gel method was employed to prepare pure-phase TiO₂ nano-powder and mixed-phase powders doped with NaF and NaI. The influences of different calcination temperatures, doping elements, and doping amounts during the preparation process on the photocatalytic performance and activity of the prepared TiO₂ powders were studied. The results of the experiments showed that the F-doped TiO₂ had the highest photocatalytic activity when the doping amount was 1.2%, as examined by EDS, where the sintering temperature was 500 °C. F-doped TiO₂ nanoparticles were also synthesized by the sol–gel method using tetrabutyl titanate and NaF mixed with expired egg white protein as the precursor. The F-TiO₂ photocatalyst was characterized using FE-SEM, HR-TEM, EDS, XPS, and UV-Vis, and the photocatalytic activity was evaluated by photodegradation of methylene blue under visible light. The results showed that doping with F reduced the energy band gap (3.04 eV) of TiO₂, thereby increasing the photocatalytic activity in the visible-light region. The visible-light wavelength range and photocatalytic activity of the catalyst were also affected by the doping amount. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Materials and Advanced Applications in Photocatalysis)

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15 pages, 4315 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Broadening the Action Spectrum of TiO₂-Based Photocatalysts to Visible Region by Substituting Platinum with Copper

by Andrey A. Saraev, Anna Yu. Kurenkova, Evgeny Yu. Gerasimov and Ekaterina A. Kozlova

Nanomaterials 2022, 12(9), 1584; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12091584 - 07 May 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 1799

Abstract

In this study, TiO₂-based photocatalysts modified with Pt and Cu/CuO_x were synthesized and studied in the photocatalytic reduction of CO₂. The morphology and chemical states of synthesized photocatalysts were studied using UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, high-resolution transmission electron [...] Read more.

In this study, TiO₂-based photocatalysts modified with Pt and Cu/CuO_x were synthesized and studied in the photocatalytic reduction of CO₂. The morphology and chemical states of synthesized photocatalysts were studied using UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. A series of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) with maximum intensity in the range of 365–450 nm was used to determine the action spectrum of photocatalysts. It is shown for, the first time, that the pre-calcination of TiO₂ at 700 °C and the use of Cu/CuO_x instead of Pt allow one to design a highly efficient photocatalyst for CO₂ transformation shifting the working range to the visible light (425 nm). Cu/CuO_x/TiO₂ (calcined at 700 °C) shows a rate of CH₄ formation of 1.2 ± 0.1 µmol h⁻¹ g⁻¹ and an overall CO₂ reduction rate of 11 ± 1 µmol h⁻¹ g⁻¹ (at 425 nm). Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Materials and Advanced Applications in Photocatalysis)

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11 pages, 5432 KiB  

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

2D/2D Heterojunction of TiO₂ Nanoparticles and Ultrathin G-C₃N₄ Nanosheets for Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution

by Ruifeng Du, Baoying Li, Xu Han, Ke Xiao, Xiang Wang, Chaoqi Zhang, Jordi Arbiol and Andreu Cabot

Nanomaterials 2022, 12(9), 1557; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12091557 - 04 May 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2721

Abstract

Photocatalytic hydrogen evolution is considered one of the promising routes to solve the energy and environmental crises. However, developing efficient and low-cost photocatalysts remains an unsolved challenge. In this work, ultrathin 2D g-C₃N₄ nanosheets are coupled with flat TiO₂ [...] Read more.

Photocatalytic hydrogen evolution is considered one of the promising routes to solve the energy and environmental crises. However, developing efficient and low-cost photocatalysts remains an unsolved challenge. In this work, ultrathin 2D g-C₃N₄ nanosheets are coupled with flat TiO₂ nanoparticles as face-to-face 2D/2D heterojunction photocatalysts through a simple electrostatic self-assembly method. Compared with g-C₃N₄ and pure TiO₂ nanosheets, 2D/2D TiO₂/g-C₃N₄ heterojunctions exhibit effective charge separation and transport properties that translate into outstanding photocatalytic performances. With the optimized heterostructure composition, stable hydrogen evolution activities are threefold and fourfold higher than those of pure TiO_2, and g-C₃N₄ are consistently obtained. Benefiting from the favorable 2D/2D heterojunction structure, the TiO₂/g-C₃N₄ photocatalyst yields H₂ evolution rates up to 3875 μmol·g⁻¹·h⁻¹ with an AQE of 7.16% at 380 nm. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Materials and Advanced Applications in Photocatalysis)

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