Microstructure and photocatalytic performance of the nano-TiO₂ film

Nano-TiO₂ films were prepared by sol-gel method on the normal glass substrates using Ti(OBu) as precursor. The microstructure and UV absorbability of films were measured by using XRD, UV-VIS technology. The photocatalytic activity of TiO₂ films was evaluated by the degradation of the cooking oil. The influences of dipping-layers and calcinations temperature of the films on crystalloid microstructure and photocatalytic activity were investigated. The results show that the TiO₂ thin films are of anatase and rutile phase structures at 450°C. When heated up to 700°C, the structure of TiO₂ film changed into rutile completely. The calcinations temperature at 450-490°C is efficient and photocatalytic activity at 480°C is better. The photocatalytic activity of films is higher when the thickness of films is increased. The photocatalytic activity of eight-layer film is the highest.