Synthesis and investigation of multifunctional TiO2 photocatalysts modified by metal nanoparticles

Photocatalysts based on the anodic single-walled titania nanotubes modified with metal nanoparticles (Au, Pd, Pt) were prepared and investigated. The metal nanoparticles sizes are in a range from 3 to 15 nm. The wall thickness of the nanotubes varied from 14 to 17 nm. It is established that photocatalysts with Au, Pd, Pt produce acetaldehyde during complete ethanol decomposition reaction. Additionally the formation of methane occurs in the TiO2 nanotubes with Pd and Au nanoparticles. We obtained firstly the multifunctional TiO2 nanotubes modified with Pd and Au nanoparticles for use both in air purification and in the production of hydrocarbon fuel precursors.