Microwave-assisted synthesis of metal oxides semiconductors heterojunctions with photocatalytic applications

• Grant number: 17/11395-7
• Support type: Regular Research Grants
• Duration: October 01, 2017 - March 31, 2020
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Juliana dos Santos de Souza
• Grantee: Juliana dos Santos de Souza
• Home Institution: Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas (CCNH). Universidade Federal do ABC (UFABC). Ministério da Educação (Brasil). Santo André , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Using solar light in photo-induced processes is very attractive since it is a clean and practically limitless energy source. Recently research related to the development of new photocatalysts capable of use this kind of energy has been growing. Metal oxides semiconductors have excelled in this field, however, the development of materials capable of utilize the visible component of the radiation (major portion) it is a contemporary challenge. In this context, this research proposal has as objective the development of new heterojunctions of nanostructured metal oxides semiconductors, whose synergic effect make it possible the use of the visible radiation, resulting in improved photocatalytic activity. Initially, systems involving mainly BiVO4, ZnO, TiO2 and derivatives will be investigated. These catalysts will be synthesized through microwave-assisted routes, an emergent technique that allows quickly obtaining of the desired products, with high selectivity, high yields and low energetic consumption, in comparison to conventional synthesis methods. Thus, several methodological studies can be carried out in a short period of time, allowing the investigation of the ideal synthetic conditions to obtain nanomaterials with controlled morphology and structure. These new materials will be characterized through several techniques and applied on photodegradation of organic species as dyes and pesticides, besides the photoelectrochemical generation of H2. As a result it is expected to accurately stablish new protocols of microwave-assisted synthesis, producing unpublished photocatalysts with high activity toward visible radiation and with extremely relevant applications from the environmental point of view. (AU)

Scientific publications

(References retrieved automatically from Web of Science and SciELO through information on FAPESP grants and their corresponding numbers as mentioned in the publications by the authors)

SOUZA, JULIANA S.; HIRATA, FERNANDO T. H.; CORIO, PAOLA. Microwave-assisted synthesis of bismuth vanadate nanoflowers decorated with gold nanoparticles with enhanced photocatalytic activity. JOURNAL OF NANOPARTICLE RESEARCH, v. 21, n. 2 FEB 10 2019. Web of Science Citations: 1.