Open AccessFacile synthesis of Ag 3 PO 4 microcrystals and its enhanced photocatalytic disinfection
Author(s) -
Tseng ChiShun,
Wu Tsunghsueh,
Lin YangWei
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
micro and nano letters
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.25
H-Index - 31
ISSN - 1750-0443
DOI - 10.1049/mnl.2018.5049
Subject(s) - photocatalysis , scanning electron microscope , visible spectrum , materials science , diffuse reflectance infrared fourier transform , nuclear chemistry , adsorption , antibacterial activity , photochemistry , irradiation , chemistry , catalysis , organic chemistry , bacteria , optoelectronics , physics , biology , nuclear physics , composite material , genetics
Facile synthesis of silver phosphate (Ag 3 PO 4 ) microcrystals was developed for the novel application in the disinfection of pathogens with visible light. Ag 3 PO 4 microcrystals from different synthesis routes were produced and characterised by scanning electron microscopy and UV–visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. The antibacterial activity of the Ag 3 PO 4 microcrystals was also evaluated for its effectiveness in eradicating pathogens ( Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus ) under white‐light light‐emitting‐diode irradiation. The prepared Ag 3 PO 4 microcrystals displayed higher and more stable photocatalytic antibacterial activity (>99% eradication rate within 10 min) comparing to Ag + ions used only. This can be attributed to the oxidation of the photogenerated hole and the adsorption of Ag + ions. This study demonstrated the strong photocatalytic activity of the as‐prepared Ag 3 PO 4 microcrystals, promising for industrial applications related to the eradication of pathogens from wastewater.