Photocatalytic Activity Enhancement of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles

Book excerpt: In this brief, a comprehensive review of the UV/visible-TiO2 photocatalytic oxidation process is presented with an insight into the mechanisms involved, the role of titanium dioxide as a catalyst, irradiation sources, types of reactors, and a comparison between various modes of TiO2 application. An overview of the development and enhancement of the activity of TiO2 nanoparticles in photocatalysis is presented. The topics covered include a detailed look at the unique properties of the TiO2 nanoparticles and their relationship to photocatalytic properties. The utilization of the TiO2 nanoparticles as photocatalysts, in the non-doped and doped forms is also reviewed. Finally, the use of modified TiO2 nanoparticles has made a significant contribution in providing definitive mechanistic information regarding the visible light photocatalytic processes.