Superhydrophilic graphene-loaded TiO2 thin film for self-cleaning applications

ACS Appl Mater Interfaces. 2013 Jan;5(1):207-12. doi: 10.1021/am302557z. Epub 2012 Dec 27.

Abstract

We develop a simple approach to fabricate graphene-loaded TiO(2) thin films on glass substrates by the spin-coating technique. Our graphene-loaded TiO(2) films were highly conductive and transparent and showed enhanced photocatalytic activities. More significantly, graphene/TiO(2) films displayed superhydrophilicity within a short time even under a white fluorescent light bulb, as compared to a pure TiO(2) film. The enhanced photocatalytic activity of graphene/TiO(2) films is attributed to its efficient charge separation, owing to electrons injection from the conduction band of TiO(2) to graphene. The electroconductivity of the graphene-loaded TiO(2) thin film also contributes to the self-cleaning function by its antifouling effect against particulate contaminants. The present study reveals the ability of graphene as a low cost cocatalyst instead of expensive noble metals (Pt, Pd), and further shows its capability for the application of self-cleaning coatings with transparency. The promising characteristics of (inexpensive, transparent, conductive, superhydrophilic, and highly photocatalytically active) graphene-loaded TiO(2) films may have the potential use in various indoor applications.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Catalysis
  • Graphite / chemistry*
  • Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions
  • Methylene Blue / chemistry
  • Oxidation-Reduction
  • Titanium / chemistry*
  • Ultraviolet Rays

Substances

  • titanium dioxide
  • Graphite
  • Titanium
  • Methylene Blue