Preparation of TiO2/WO3 composite photocatalysts by the adjustment of the semiconductors' surface charge

The present research focused on the preparation of TiO2/WO3 (76/24 wt. %) composite photocatalysts for the photodegradation of methyl orange under UV light. The composites were prepared by the adjustment of the surface charge of the individual semiconductors, achieving a homogeneous distribution of the components within the composite. This resulted in a homogeneous distribution of the components within the composite. The individual WO3 and TiO2 nanocrystals were obtained either by sol-gel or by hydrothermal synthesis. The produced nanomaterials were characterized by using TEM, SEM, XRD and DRS. Major differences in their photocatalytic performance depended on the nature of the precursors, and the synthesis pathway. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.