Synthesis of PEG-modified TiO2–InVO4 nanoparticles via combustion method and photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) with different average molecular weights (600 and 20,000) was used as a templating reagent to synthesize PEG-modified TiO2–InVO4 nanoparticles via a simple combustion method. The effect of PEG on the synthesis of TiO2–InVO4 nanoparticles was systematically investigated by comparing the particles properties. Furthermore, the photocatalytic activity of both PEG-modified and unmodified TiO2–InVO4 nanoparticles was estimated by measuring the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue under UV irradiation. PEG-modified TiO2–InVO4 nanoparticles showed larger specific surface area and higher UV-absorbance compared with unmodified TiO2–InVO4 nanoparticles. Consequently, PEG-modified TiO2–InVO4 nanoparticles showed enhanced photocatalytic activity.

► Synthesis of PEG-modified TiO2–InVO4 nanoparticles by a simple combustion method. ► Effect of PEG on the composite properties. ► Photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue by PEG-modified TiO2–InVO4 under UV irradiation. ► PEG suppressed the crystal growth and enlarged the specific surface.