Preparation of the visible light responsive N3−-doped WO3 photocatalyst by a thermal decomposition of ammonium paratungstate

The nitrogen doped WO3 (N-WO3) photocatalyst was successfully prepared by a thermal decomposition of an ammonium paratungstate [(NH4)10W12O41·5H2O] containing NH4+ ions as a nitrogen source. The N-WO3 prepared at 673–873 K efficiently absorbed visible light in longer wavelength regions as compared to a commercial N-free WO3. Although small amount of Pt particles must be deposited on the catalyst surfaces, the N-WO3 photocatalysts were found to decompose gaseous methanol into CO2 and H2O under visible or solar light irradiations. As well as, the Pt particles on the N-WO3 surfaces to enhance the photocatalytic activity showed an oxidation catalysis property at low temperatures of 323–333 K. These results suggest that the N-WO3 deposited with Pt particles can effectively utilize the sunlight as light and/or heat sources.

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► The nitrogen doped WO3 was prepared by a thermal decomposition of an ammonium paratungstate.
► The Pt-loaded N-WO3 photocatalyst efficiently decomposed methanol into CO2 and H2O under solar light irradiation.
► The Pt particles on the N-WO3 as a cocatalyst showed a high oxidation catalysis property at 323–333 K.