Assessment of atomic layer deposited TiO2 photocatalytic self-cleaning by quartz crystal microbalance

Abstract

The self-cleaning properties emerging from photocatalytic effects consist in the elimination of an organic contamination layer by light-induced redox reactions. Quartz crystal microbalances (QCMs), monitoring the contaminant mass loss under UV illumination, were used to investigate this effect and its efficiency. A new setup dedicated to such purpose is introduced along with the results of a self-cleaning experiment performed with a 20-nm TiO 2 thin film coated on a QCM by atomic layer deposition. In particular, a 10-nm paraffin oil thin film deposited under vacuum is shown to be degraded down to its complete removal according to a zeroth order photocatalytic reaction. Finally, the experimental opportunities offered by the new setup, such as a controlled environment composition, are presented.

Liberation of photogenerated radicals from a nano-titania surface at the solid–air interface

“…The QCM has been previously employed in studies regarding photocatalytic degradation of organic molecules ex situ [21][22][23] and in situ. 13,[24][25][26][27][28][29][30] However, most of the in situ studies have been carried out at the solid-liquid interface. This study aims to provide insight into the photocatalytic degradation mechanism at the solid-air interface at the molecular level.…”

Mesoporous-Structure MOF-14-Based QCM p-Xylene Gas Sensor

“…Quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) gas sensors [18][19][20][21][22][23][24] are a new technology developed in recent years. Compared with traditional semiconductor sensors, QCM sensors feature high sensitivity, fast response time, room working temperature and easy portability.…”