| Abstract [eng] |
This study is focused on TiO2 as a photocatalyst and its modifications to increase the photocatalytic efficiency. The study was carried out by trying to keep as similar conditions as possible when applying the different measurement techniques. Deep analysis was done on the TiO2 crystallization and morphology dependence on the deposition parameters and techniques. Additionally, several different approaches to enhance the photocatalytic efficiency were done: the formation of Mg, Cu, and Ni-doped TiO2 thin films by the reactive magnetron sputtering technique, and the optimization of the dopant concentration in TiO2 thin films to enhance the photocatalytic efficiency. The evaluation of photocatalytic efficiency under the same conditions to investigate the influence of the dopant and its concentration on TiO2 photocatalytic properties. Moreover, the formation of gold nanoparticles on TiO2 thin films by the RMS technique, and the investigation of how the formation parameters together with TiO2 morphology affect the AuNP parameters and the photocatalytic activity of the prepared TiO2/AuNP. Nevertheless, a design for an alternative platinum-free counter was proposed and analyzed. The photocatalytic efficiency (photodegradation, photoconductivity) was measured for pure the TiO2 crystal phases, doped TiO2, and TiO2 hybrid photoelectrode. The analysis was carried out by XRD, FE-SEM, XPS, AFM, I-V, and photoconductivity together with a photodegradation in the dark and under UV irradiation. |
