Effect of PO43− and PO43−–SO42− modification of TiO2 on its photocatalytic properties

In this paper, novel photocatalysts were prepared by PO43− and PO43−/SO42− surface modification of TiO2. Photocatalytic activities of these photocatalysts as affected by preparation conditions were studied by examining the degradation of aqueous methylthionine chloride solution. Their properties were measured and compared by XRD, IR and UV. The experimental results indicate that the modification of TiO2 by PO43− and PO43−–SO42− enhance distinctly its photocatalytic activity, especially the PO43−–SO42−/TiO2. The synergistic effect of photocatalytic decomposition and surface acidity of catalyst is observed by optimized the ratio of PO43− and SO42−. Super acidification of TiO2 increases the absorbance of catalyst in ultraviolet region, and improves distinctly the photocatalytic activity on 365 nm light.

Graphical abstractNovel photocatalysts are prepared by the surface modification of PO43− and PO43−–SO42− on TiO2, respectively. The synergistic effect between photocatalytic activity and surface acidity of catalyst is observed. The modification of TiO2 by PO43− and PO43−–SO42− can enhance distinctly its photocatalytic activity, especially the photocatalytic activity irradiation on 365 nm light. Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide