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Visible Light Photocatalysts Based on Manganese Doped TiO 2 Integrated Within Monolithic Reduced Graphene Oxide/Polymer Porous Monolith
Author(s) -
Toshikj Nikola,
Politakos Nikolaos,
Veloso Antonio,
San Román Estibaliz González,
CorderoLanzac Tomás,
Qin Zuzeng,
Leal Gracia Patricia,
Tomovska Radmila
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
chemistryselect
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.437
H-Index - 34
ISSN - 2365-6549
DOI - 10.1002/slct.202001735
Subject(s) - materials science , graphene , chemical engineering , aqueous solution , nanoparticle , oxide , photocatalysis , visible spectrum , polymer , monolith , degradation (telecommunications) , desorption , adsorption , photochemistry , nanotechnology , catalysis , chemistry , optoelectronics , composite material , organic chemistry , telecommunications , computer science , engineering , metallurgy
3D monolithic integrated photocatlysts were prepared by self‐assembly of graphene platelets decorated with manganese doped TiO 2 nanoparticles. The self‐assembly was induced by chemical reduction at mild reaction conditions. The physico‐chemical properties of the photocatalysts were improved by addition of polymer nanoparticles within the 3D structures. The rGO presence in the nanostructures affected their light absorption capability, which was red shifted. As a result, the band gap dropped from 3.12 eV in Mn doped TiO 2 to 2.8 eV in the monolithic composite made of rGO and TiO 2 . The photocatalysts were applied for the elimination of methylene blue (MB) from aqueous solutions, the degradation of which was monitored by the Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry. It was shown that (i) MB was completely eliminated from aqueous solution; (ii) all the adsorbed MB was photocatalytically degraded under visible light, giving rise to various smaller molecules as intermediate products of degradation; and (iii) one part of the MB was completely mineralized, demonstrated by the presence of final degradation products. These results indicate that the presented materials seem to be a powerful tool in water purification process with double impact. On one hand, it will allow re‐use of water and decrease of its consumption in the textile producing plants, and on the other hand, it will assure protection of the environment by elimination of the hazards.