Preparation of C-TiO2 from fresh aloe extract and degradation of ofloxacin by visible light

Key words:  aloe extract  C self-doping  nano-TiO₂  visible light catalysis  ofloxacin

Abstract:

In order to expand the light response range of nano-TiO₂, C-self-doped TiO₂ nanoparticles with small size (C-TiO₂) were prepared by hydrothermal method using fresh aloe extract with protective effect as reaction system. Raman spectrum, EDS images, XPS, SEM, TEM, XRD and UV-Vis DRS were used to characterize the size, morphology, crystal structure and band structure of C-TiO₂. The results show that the particle size of C-TiO₂ is small and uniform, and the dispersion is good. The element C replaces part of Ti atoms into the TiO₂ lattice, forming the Ti—O—C structure, resulting in the formation of lattice strain and structural defects in the TiO₂ lattice. The light response range of TiO₂ is extended to visible light region, the band gap width of TiO₂ is reduced. And the visible light response capacity of TiO₂ was improved, which is 4.59 times that of P25 under the same conditions, and the cycle performance is good.