Gold nanoparticles into Ti1−xZnxO2 films: Synthesis, structure and application

• The gold particles of certain size incorporated into Ti1−xZnxO2 films were performed by photo- and thermo-photochemical routes.
• The film surface is enriched by zinc ions due to the complexation reaction.
• Gold clusters promote the titania crystallization.
• The photocatalytic properties were studied upon UV irradiation.
• The Ti1−xZnxO2 film contained ultra fine gold particles show superior photocatalytic activity.

The gold particles of certain size were incorporated into Ti1−xZnxO2 films by sol–gel method. The synthesis conditions predetermine the size and shape of gold nanoparticles, which were monitored by the absorption spectra and SEM images. The results of Raman spectra measurements indicate that Au nanoparticles inhibit the grain growth of anatase within the film. The photocatalytic activity of Au/Ti1−xZnxO2 films in the degradation of tetracycline hydrochloride depends on the sizes of Au particles.