Surface modification of TiO2 for selective photodegradation of toxic compounds

We have developed hybrid photocatalysts by introducing molecular recognition sites to the surface of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles. The synthesized hybrid photocatalysts indicated the selective recognition ability for target molecules based on specific molecular recognition sites constructed by the interval immobilization technique, and also the photostability of the recognition sites was confirmed by long time UV irradiation in an aqueous solution. Furthermore, the hybrid photocatalysts showed selective degradation performance to saxitoxins which are one of the famous neurotoxins. All basic and application results suggested that the newly developed methods for preparation of nano sized hybrid-TiO2 can be worked for selective adsorption and photodegradation of targeting compounds.

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► Hybrid photocatalysts by introducing molecular recognition sites to the surface of titanium dioxide (TiO2).
► Selective adsorption, photodegradation, and higher photostability were confirmed.
► Possibility of selective decomposition of toxins.