Abstract

A series of three dimensional (3D) porous TiO2–graphene (TGR) hydrogel samples with different mass ratio of graphene to TiO2 were obtained using a one-step hydrothermal method. Their microstructure, mechanical properties, and photocatalytic activity were investigated. The TGR samples exhibited well defined interconnected 3D porous network microstructure and good mechanical strength. Moreover, the pore size and the compressive strength could be easily adjusted by changing the content of TiO2, showing a decreasing tendency with the increase of the relative content of TiO2. The results of the photodegradation of methylene blue indicated that the photocatalytic activity of the TGR samples can be significantly enhanced, compared to the pure TiO2 nanoparticles. The TGR sample also showed good durability and reusability. The mechanisms resulting in the improvement of photocatalytic activity were investigated with DRS, PL spectra, and adsorption experiment under dark conditions. It was found that adsorption is the dominant factor for the enhanced photocatalytic activity.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.