Modified Titanium dioxide-based photocatalysts for water treatment: Mini review

Abstract

Titanium dioxide (TiO₂), recognized for its affordability, low cost, high chemical stability, and eco-friendliness, has garnered extensive research attention in recent years. But because of the TiO₂ band gap (>3.2eV) seriously limit the use of visible light, and fast electron-hole composite in TiO₂ often lead to poor photocatalytic activity and low quantum yield. Therefore, TiO₂ needs to be modified. Modification can change the broadband gap of TiO₂, enhance light absorption, thus affect the important means of photocatalytic efficiency. In this review, we introduce the crystal form and photocatalytic mechanism of TiO₂, and review some modification strategies of TiO₂, including doping modification, construction of heterojunctions, crystal plane engineering and defect engineering. Furthermore, we review the application of modified TiO₂-based photocatalytic materials in water treatment, including the removal of dye contaminants, antibiotics, advanced oxidative sterilization, and finally explore the challenges and prospects of modified TiO₂-based photocatalysts.