Enhancing the photocatalytic activity of anatase TiO2 by improving the specific facet-induced spontaneous separation of photogenerated electrons and holes

Research output: Journal Publications and ReviewsRGC 21 - Publication in refereed journalpeer-review

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Author(s)

  • Chang Liu
  • Xiguang Han
  • Shuifen Xie
  • Qin Kuang
  • Mingshang Jin
  • Zhaoxiong Xie
  • Lansun Zheng

Detail(s)

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)282-289
Journal / PublicationChemistry - An Asian Journal
Volume8
Issue number1
Publication statusPublished - Jan 2013
Externally publishedYes

Abstract

Recently, it has been proven that directional flow of photogenerated charge carriers occurs on specific facets of TiO<sub>2</sub> nanocrystals. Herein, we demonstrate that the photocatalytic activity of anatase TiO<sub>2</sub> nanocrystals in both photoreduction and photooxidation processes can be enhanced by selectively depositing Pt nanoparticles on the {101} facets, which strengthens spontaneously surface-induced separation between photogenerated electrons and holes in the photocatalysis process. An optimal ratio of the oxidative {001} facets to the reductive {101} facets exists with regard to the photocatalysis of the faceted TiO<sub>2</sub> nanocrystals, and this is crucial for balancing the recombination and redox reaction rates of photogenerated electrons and holes. The present work might help us gain deeper insight into the relation between the specific surface of semiconductor photocatalysts and their photocatalytic activities and provides us with a new route to design photocatalysts with high photocatalytic activity. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Research Area(s)

  • hydrogen evolution, nanostructures, photocatalysis, surface chemistry, titanium

Bibliographic Note

Publication details (e.g. title, author(s), publication statuses and dates) are captured on an “AS IS” and “AS AVAILABLE” basis at the time of record harvesting from the data source. Suggestions for further amendments or supplementary information can be sent to [email protected].

Citation Format(s)

Enhancing the photocatalytic activity of anatase TiO2 by improving the specific facet-induced spontaneous separation of photogenerated electrons and holes. / Liu, Chang; Han, Xiguang; Xie, Shuifen et al.
In: Chemistry - An Asian Journal, Vol. 8, No. 1, 01.2013, p. 282-289.

Research output: Journal Publications and ReviewsRGC 21 - Publication in refereed journalpeer-review