Article ID Journal Published Year Pages File Type
51495 Catalysis Communications 2009 6 Pages PDF
Abstract

Pd and Pt-modified TiO2 were compared with un-modified TiO2 for the photocatalytic sterilization of Escherichia coli in water. Pd/TiO2 was found to work significantly faster than Pt/TiO2, and was also active in the absence of light; indicating an alternative mechanism to conventional titania photocatalysis. The Pd/TiO2 catalyst temporarily lost bactericidal activity after each use, but was re-activated by exposure to air prior to reuse. A direct correlation between oxidation state and antimicrobial activity was indicated for Pd/TiO2. XPS analysis confirmed the oxidation of Pd on the catalyst after exposure to air and the subsequent reduction when immersed in water.

Related Topics
Physical Sciences and Engineering Chemical Engineering Catalysis
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