The microstructure and photocatalytic properties of nitrogen-doped nano titanium dioxide loaded on porous ceramics

Nitrogen-doped nano TiO2 powder was prepared using the solvothermal method. The nano TiO2 powder was loaded on the porous ceramic carriers with a different aperture through the vacuum impregnation method using polyvinyl alcohol as a binder. The effects of deionized water content and carrier pore size on the microstructure and photocatalytic activity of nitrogen-doped nano TiO2 powder and supported TiO2 were investigated. The results show that, when introducing 25% deionized water, the nitrogen-doped nano TiO2 powder obtains a good crystallinity, small grain size, and high photocatalytic properties because of adequate hydrolysis of tetrabutyl titanate. The photocatalytic activity of nitrogen-doped nano TiO2 powder is improved by distorting the lattice and inhibiting grain growth. The nano TiO2 powder can be tightly loaded on the surface of the strut or hole-wall of porous ceramic carriers. The absorption and photocatalytic activity of supported TiO2 are demonstrably improved as the macropore provides the transmission channel, and the micropore realizes a good absorbing effect. The 20 PPI carrier with high porosity and suitable strength is beneficial to promote the photocatalytic property of supported TiO2. Moreover, the supported TiO2is easily recycled and reused.

Automated summary

Nitrogen-doped nano TiO2 powder was prepared using the solvothermal method. The powder was loaded on the porous ceramic carriers through vacuum impregnation, and the effects of water content and carrier pore size on the microstructure and photocatalytic activity were investigated. Results showed that introducing 25% deionized water improved the crystallinity and photocatalytic properties of the nitrogen-doped nano TiO2 powder. Distorting the lattice and inhibiting grain growth enhanced its photocatalytic activity. The supported TiO2 on porous ceramic carriers showed improved absorption and photocatalytic activity due to the transmission channel and good absorbing effect of the carrier pores, especially the 20 PPI carrier with high porosity and suitable strength. The supported TiO2 could be easily recycled and reused.