Hydrothermal processing and in situ surface modification of metal oxide nanomaterials

In situ surface modification of TiO2 and ZnO metal oxide particles has been carried out under hydrothermal conditions within a wide range of temperature and pressure (T = 150–400 °C; P = up to 20 MPa). The influence of the surfactant and selective doping with active metal ions on the crystal size, morphology, and photocatalytic activity of TiO2 and ZnO particles has been carried out. A systematic characterization of the product has been carried out using powder XRD, FTIR, TGA, SEM/TEM, and UV–vis spectroscopy. Similarly the photocatalytic activity in these metal oxides varies with the size, shape and dopant metals.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Hydrothermal synthesis of TiO2 and ZnO was carried out. ► In situ surface modification and coupled doping were used to alter bandgap. ► Organic additive enhanced the reaction kinetics by an order of 6 times. ► Size, morphology and surface chemistry were controlled through organic additive. ► Coupled doping influenced photocatalytic properties.