Pd-Gardenia-TiO2 as a photocatalyst for H2 evolution from pure water

The photocatalytic activity for H2 evolution from pure water over Pd loaded TiO2 prepared by gardenia extract (Pd-Gardenia-TiO2) is systematically investigated. The as-prepared photocatalysts are characterized by X-ray diffraction, high resolution transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectra, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Gardenia extract functions as reducing and stabilizing agents simultaneously. The mean size of the as-prepared Pd nanoparticles is in the range of 2.3 ± 0.5 nm based on TEM images. The Pd-Gardenia-TiO2 catalyst exhibits good photocatalytic activity for H2 evolution (93 μmol · h−1 · g−1), which is much higher than that of Pd photodeposited on TiO2. Possible factors for its photocatalytic activity from pure water are also investigated.

► Photoactivity for H2 evolution from pure water over Pd-Gardenia-TiO2 is studied.
► The mean size of the as-prepared Pd nanoparticles is 2.3 ± 0.5 nm.
► The introduction of gardenia extract is beneficial to enhance the photoactivity.
► Pd-Gardenia-TiO2 shows much higher photoactivity than Pd photodeposited on TiO2.