Synthesis and Characterization of a Photocatalytic Material Based on Raspberry-like SiO₂@TiO₂ Nanoparticles Supported...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Photocatalysis

Background:

• Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a widely used photocatalyst, but its application is limited by a large band gap.
• Graphene oxide (GO) is a promising support material due to its high surface area and conductivity.
• Developing composite materials can enhance the properties of TiO2 for improved performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize a novel SiO2@TiO2 nanocomposite material supported on functionalized graphene oxide.
• To investigate the effect of this composite structure on reducing the band gap of TiO2.
• To characterize the material's structure, morphology, and optical properties.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of raspberry-like SiO2@TiO2 nanoparticles on functionalized graphene oxide.
• Material characterization using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM).
• Band gap determination using UV-Vis absorption spectra and the Kubelka-Munk equation, complemented by theoretical calculations.

Main Results:

• Successful preparation of a raspberry-like SiO2@TiO2/GO nanocomposite.
• Characterization confirmed the formation of the composite structure and its morphology.
• The band gap of TiO2 was significantly reduced in the composite material, as evidenced by optical studies and theoretical analysis.

Conclusions:

• The synthesized SiO2@TiO2/GO nanocomposite is an effective material for reducing the band gap of TiO2.
• The unique raspberry-like structure and graphene oxide support contribute to enhanced properties.
• This material shows potential for applications requiring improved light absorption and photocatalytic activity.