Insights into the photocatalytic process of surface-platinized hierarchical anatase TiO2 nanoparticles by in-situ DRIFT analysis

Abstract

BackgroundEnvironmental remediation researchers are challenged to unravel the mechanisms of dual-responsive photocatalysts for degrading pollutants in both liquid and gas phases. This study aims to provide comprehensive insights into the photocatalytic processes employed by surface-platinized hierarchical anatase TiO2 nanoparticles. The investigation includes an in-depth analysis of the associated mechanism through in-situ DRIFT analysis. MethodsUtilizing surfactant-assisted surface platinized TiO2 samples synthesized through soft-template and chemical reduction techniques, this study investigated their efficacy in the degradation of crystal violet dye (10 ppm) under irradiation from a 380.8 W mercury-xenon lamp. The photooxidation of gas-phase ethanol was subsequently examined using the DRIFT technique. Significant findingsThe Pt-deposited C-TiO2 nanoparticles exhibited an impressive photocatalytic dye degradation efficiency of 87.07 %, surpassing the performance of other synthesized catalysts. To elucidate the mechanism behind this enhancement, an in-situ DRIFT analysis was conducted using the photo-oxidation of ethanol. The enhanced efficiency can be attributed to the incorporation of Pt metal, which serves as an electron collector in the n-type TiO2 semiconductor, thereby prolonging electron lifetime. Additionally, the pivotal role of hydroxyl radicals and holes in generating intermediates was thoroughly examined through DRIFT analysis, providing comprehensive insights into the photocatalytic reaction and the reactive intermediate species involved.