The effect of vinyl-containing ionic liquid on the photocatalytic activity of iron-doped TiO2

Visible light responsive iron-doped TiO2 (Fe3+/TiO2-IL) was synthesized by sol–gel method using 1-vinyl-3-propylimidazolium iodide (VPIM+I−) as a reaction medium. VPIM+I− not only made the morphological and structural changes of Fe3+/TiO2-IL, but also extended its absorption edge to the visible light region. The photocatalytic activity of Fe3+/TiO2-IL was tested in the degradation of 2-nitrophenol under simulated solar light irradiation. The photocatalytic activity of Fe3+/TiO2-IL was higher than the samples prepared in the reaction medium without VPIM+I−. Moreover, the effect of pH and H2O2 on the photocatalytic activity of Fe3+/TiO2-IL was also investigated. Fe3+/TiO2-IL showed high photocatalytic activity in acidic environment, and H2O2 had a dual effect on the photocatalytic activity Fe3+/TiO2-IL.

Surface-view SEM images of: (a) Fe3+/TiO2-control and (b) Fe3+/TiO2-IL.Figure optionsDownload high-quality image (239 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Fe3+/TiO2-IL was synthesized in 1-vinyl-3-propylimidazolium iodide (VPIM+I−).
► VPIM+I− made the morphological and structural changes of Fe3+/TiO2-IL.
► VPIM+I− extended its absorption edge to the visible light region.
► Fe3+/TiO2-IL exhibited high photocatalytic activity.