Nano-TiO2@Ag/PVC film with enhanced antibacterial activities and photocatalytic properties

The antibacterial and photocatalytic PVC film was prepared by doping heteronanostructure of TiO2 nanowire@Ag nanoparticles. TiO2 nanowire with 50-60 nm in diameter and 0.1 mm in length was prepared by a hydrothermal method, and Ag nanopartical about 5-10 nm in diameter was grafted on the surface of TiO2 nanowire evenly in the solution. The antimicrobial ability and the photocatalytic properties of the nano-TiO2@Ag/PVC film were systematically investigated by changing the influence factors such as the content of nano-TiO2@Ag, pH value and the cultivation condition. It confirmed that the nano-TiO2@Ag nanostructure could increase the antibacterial efficiency of the PVC film. Further, nano-TiO2@Ag/PVC film also showed enhanced photocatalytic activity to decompose Rhodmine B (RhB).

TiO2 nanowire was firstly prepared by a hydrothermal method. Then Ag nanoparticles were grafted on the surface of TiO2 nanowire evenly in solution. When doped with TiO2@Ag, the antibacterial and photocatalytic properties of PVC film were investigated systematically.Highlights► A facial route to prepare nano-TiO2@Ag/PVC film is developed. ► Silver nanoparticles were grafted on the surface of TiO2 nanowire evenly. ► The antibacterial property of nano-TiO2@Ag/PVC film was improved. ► The photocatalytic property of nano-TiO2@Ag/PVC film was improved.