Preparation and photocatalytic properties of Fe3+-doped Ag@TiO2 core–shell nanoparticles

Ag@TiO2 core–shell-type nanophotocatalysts have been prepared using a simple and convenient method. The products were characterized by TEM, XRD, and UV–vis spectra. To make the catalysts achieve the highest photocatalytic activity under UV light illumination, the Ag content of Ag@TiO2 was optimized. The results showed that Ag@TiO2-doped Fe3+ extend their absorption into the visible region. Among the Fe3+-doped samples, Ag@Fe–TiO2 with low Ag content showed higher photocatalytic activity under visible light illumination. An excessive added amount of Ag would reduce Fe3+ to Fe2+ and make them difficult to be incorporated into the lattice of titania. From the experiments, we found that Fe3+ ions could stabilize the Ag@TiO2 colloid by holding back the aggregation of the core–shell nanoparticles.

Graphical abstractActing as an electron trap, the Ag core is protected by a TiO2 shell from corrosion or dissolution. Fe3+ doped on the Ag@TiO2 system can enhance the photocatalytic activity under visible light illumination.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide