General one-pot strategy to prepare Ag–TiO2 decorated reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites for chemical and biological disinfectant

Abstract

A multifunctional Ag–TiO2/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanocomposite was prepared by a simple one-step hydrothermal reaction using TiO2 NP (Degussa P25), AgNO3, and graphene oxide (GO) without reducing agents. Growth of the Ag–TiO2 NPs over GO and reduction of GO were simultaneously carried out under hydrothermal condition. This method provides the notable advantages of a single-step reaction without employing toxic solvents or reducing agents, thereby providing a novel green synthetic route to produce the nanocomposite of Ag–TiO2/rGO. Further, it enhances the optical response of the nanocomposites and contributed for the absorption of light in the visible spectrum through localized surface plasmon resonance effects. The superior photocatalytic activities, antibacterial properties, and the easy recovery make the Ag– TiO2/rGO nanocomposite a good promising candidate for wastewater treatment.