Synthesis and solid characterization of nitrogen and sulfur-doped TiO2 photocatalysts active under near visible light

A series of N, S-substituted Titanium (IV) (diisopropoxide) bis (2,4-pentadionate) precursor were synthesized by the sol-gel method. The obtained solids were calcined at 550 degrees C for two hours to obtain photoactive phases. A thermogravimetric analysis of the solid precipitates shows that crystallization has been almost completed at this value of calcination temperature. The samples were characterized by X-Ray diffraction (XRD), determination of the BET specific surface area and UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. The photocatalytic activity of the obtained catalyst was estimated on a basis of decolouration of Congo red dye under near visible light. (D 2008 Published by Elsevier B.V.