Bersu Bastug Azer1,Ahmet Gulsaran1,Reza Karimi1,Joseph Sanderson1,Michael Pope1,Mustafa Yavuz1
University of Waterloo1
Bersu Bastug Azer1,Ahmet Gulsaran1,Reza Karimi1,Joseph Sanderson1,Michael Pope1,Mustafa Yavuz1
University of Waterloo1
In the pursuit of efficient photocatalytic materials, the integration of titanium dioxide (TiO<sub>2</sub>) with graphene oxide (GO) has emerged as a promising strategy. Herein, we present a novel and environmentally friendly method for synthesizing a TiO<sub>2</sub>-GO hybrid through laser irradiation in liquid. This technique offers simplicity, greenness, and remarkable control over the heterostructure's properties depending on the laser parameters.<br/> <br/>The TiO<sub>2</sub>-GO hybrid was fabricated by ultrasonication of TiO<sub>2</sub> nanoparticles and GO in a liquid medium, followed by femtosecond laser irradiation. The resulting heterostructure was characterized using various techniques. The structural properties were investigated through X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, and BET analysis. The XRD patterns confirmed the successful integration of TiO<sub>2</sub> and GO, while Raman spectroscopy revealed a strong interface formation between the two materials. BET analysis demonstrated increased surface area in the hybrid structure. To evaluate the optical properties, UV-Vis spectroscopy was employed. The absorption spectra exhibited enhanced light absorption in the visible range, indicating efficient utilization of visible light for photocatalytic processes. The band gap energy of the TiO<sub>2</sub>-GO hybrid was estimated using the Kubelka-Munk function, revealing a reduced band gap compared to pure TiO<sub>2</sub>. This band gap narrowing enables the hybrid to harness a broader spectrum of light, enhancing its photocatalytic activity under visible light illumination. Moreover, the morphology of the TiO<sub>2</sub>-GO hybrid was examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The SEM images showcased a well-dispersed and interconnected structure with intimate contact between TiO<sub>2</sub> nanoparticles and GO sheets.<br/> <br/>In summary, our laser irradiation in liquid synthesis approach enables the fabrication of a TiO<sub>2</sub>-GO hybrid with outstanding properties for photocatalytic applications. This green and straightforward technique results in a heterostructure that exhibits enhanced photocatalytic performance under visible light, surpassing the capabilities of TiO<sub>2</sub> and GO individually. The comprehensive characterization of the hybrid's optical, structural, and morphological properties validates its potential for highly efficient photocatalytic applications.