Northwestern scientists have designed synthesized and tested a mixed-phase nanostructured titanium dioxide (TiO2) composite photocatalyst that exhibits enhanced photoactivity compared to conventional anatase films and commercially available Degussa P25 one of the industry\'s gold standard photocatalysts. The scientists capitalized on particular characteristics of reactive DC sputtering techniques such as the optimized phase composition nanostructure interfacial area oxygen vacancy concentration and other lattice defects to enhance the reactivity and efficiency of their novel photocatalyst. This material oxidizes acetaldehyde in gas phase reactions more efficiently and more vigorously than other conventional material. Furthermore it reduces CO2 under UV and visible wavelengths without the addition of a hole scavenger other than water whereas Degussa P25 is non-responsive in visible light and requires a hole scavenger such as isopropanol for reduction.
1) Uniform dispersal of thin film with good mechanic strength 2) Increased photoactivity in both oxidation and reduction chemistry 3) Functional under both UV and visible light 4) Scalable for commercial use