Synthesis of Spherical and Layered Ag-SiO2-TiO2/TiO2-Ag Structures

Abstract

Due to the unique properties of titanium dioxide (TiO2), titanium oxide catalysts hold significant potential for photo-oxidative processes involving organic substances in liquid media. The current research has focused on developing new preparation methods that enable the manipulation of the properties, structure, and geometric shape of catalysts to enhance their efficiency in targeted reactions. This study developed a method for preparing Ag-SiO2-TiO2/TiO2-Ag layered structures with a spherical shape, featuring particle diameters ranging from 232 to 653 μm and mesopores of 2–20 nm. This was achieved by combining sol–gel and template synthesis methods. A comprehensive analysis of the obtained materials was conducted using methods such as X-ray phase analysis, micro-X-ray spectral analysis, X-ray microanalysis, and scanning electron spectroscopy. The photocatalytic properties were assessed by measuring the degree of decomposition of methyl orange in a model oxidation reaction under light radiation. The obtained spherical Ag-SiO2-TiO2/TiO2-Ag layered structures demonstrated high efficiency in the photooxidation of methyl orange in the model reaction.