Multi-functional Ultra-thin Film Photocatalytic Light Absorber for Adsorption and Decomposition of Toxic Materials
Abstract
Multi-functional Ultra-thin Film Photocatalytic Light Absorber for Adsorption and Decomposition of Toxic Materials Photocatalysis plays an important role in complete destruction of toxic organic chemicals under ambient conditions using solar energy. Current photocatalytic detoxification processes, however, are highly inefficient. This inefficiency arises because the charge carrier (electrons/holes, e-/h+) extraction efficiency in photocatalysts is far too low, the nanostructured photocatalysts have fast deactivation, and the photocatalytic processes over most catalyst materials requires ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. The charge carriers are generated by light irradiation to initiate the catalytic reactions, but their recombination rates are much faster than utilization, which highly limits the activity of photocatalysts. The adsorption of toxic chemicals and/or their decomposed products prevents active site accessibility to oxygen (O2), and thus causes catalyst poisoning. In addition, the majority of the energy in sunlight is not in the UV regime (<5%). Therefore, catalyst materials and design strategies that can potentially enhance e-/h+ extraction efficiency, catalyst stability, light absorption, and the resultant catalytic activity in photocatalytic detoxification reactions are highly desired.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Oct 16, 2018
- Source ID
- W911NF1710363
Entities
People
- Dongxia Liu
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- United States Army
- University of Maryland