Synthesis and photocatalytic properties of three dimensional laminated structure anatase TiO2/nano-Fe0 with exposed (001) facets

Abstract

Three dimensional laminated structure anatase TiO₂/nano-Fe⁰ with exposed (001) facets used as photocatalysts were synthesized by a two-step solvothermal route and a liquid phase reduction deposition method. The resulting samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and selected-area electron diffraction. Characterization and experimental results indicated that the three dimensional laminated structure of anatase TiO₂ was assembled by two dimensional TiO₂-sheets with a thickness of approximately 30 nm. The three dimensional laminated structure anatase TiO₂/nano-Fe⁰ photocatalysts with improved visible-light responsive capability, high charge-hole mobility, and low electron–hole recombination exhibited higher photocatalytic performance in the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue. The composite of nano-Fe⁰ and TiO₂ could effectively promote the generation of hydroxyl radicals (˙OH) with a synergistic effect and Photo-Fenton theory. This study provided new insights into the fabrication and practical application of high-performance photocatalysts in degrading organic pollutants.