Synthesis of Composite Titanate Photocatalyst via Molten Salt Processing and Its Enhanced Photocatalytic Properties

Photocatalysis plays a pivotal role in environmental remediation and energy production and improving the efficiency of photocatalysts, yet enhancing its efficiency remains a challenge. Titanate has been claimed to be a very promising material amongst various photocatalysts in recent years. In this work, a novel composite photocatalyst of sodium titanate and potassium titanate was synthesized via a simple hydrothermal and molten salt calcination method. Low melting point nitrate was added in the calcination process, which helps reduce the calcination temperature. The as-prepared composite sample showed excellent photocatalytic performance compared with commercial P25 in the visible light range. According to the characterization of XRD, SEM, TEM, BET, UV-Vis, and photocatalytic property testing, the composite's photocatalytic performance results are due to the dual optimization brought about by the layered structure and composite of titanium salts forming a heterojunction. We believe that the composite has significant application potential for the use of titanate in the field of photocatalysis. Notably, this study employed well-documented synthesis methods and adhered to established protocols for experimental procedures.