Hydrothermal preparation and characterization of TiO2:AC composites

A new photocatalyst titania:activated carbon (TiO2:AC) composite was prepared by impregnating anatase type TiO2 nanoparticulates onto the activated carbon surface through a mild hydrothermal route. A varied ratio of TiO2 to AC was considered for impregnation. As-prepared TiO2:AC composite was characterized by various techniques such as powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), BET surface area and positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS). Powder XRD results showed the persisting nature of anatase phase of TiO2 deposited on the activated carbon surface. The BET, FTIR and PALS results revealed the impregnation threshold. The TiO2 particulates were well adhered and uniformly dispersed on the carbon surface as confirmed by SEM.