Why Use Methanol & UV Light in Preparing Pt/TiO2?

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Overall, the use of methanol and UV light in the preparation of the Pt-TiO2 catalyst increases its efficiency in degrading pollutants. In summary, methanol is used as a solvent in the preparation of Pt-TiO2 catalyst due to its ability to dissolve hexachloroplatinic acid and prevent the precipitation of TiO2 particles. The use of UV light in the process activates the photocatalytic properties of the catalyst, allowing it to effectively degrade pollutants through the formation of a charge-transfer complex and generation of ROS. These factors contribute to the enhanced photodegradation efficiency observed in the study.
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Guys please I need your help..

In article: “The enhancement of photodegradation efficiency using Pt–TiO2 catalyst” F.B. Li, X.Z. Li Chemosphere 48 (2002) 1103–1111

Preparation of photocatalysts.

Photoreduction process: TiO2 was suspended in a mixture of hexachloroplatinic acid in methanol. The suspension was irradiated with a 125 W mercury lamp (60 min.). Pt-TiO2 was separated by filtration, washed with distilled water and dried at 100°C for 24 h.


why do we use methanol solvent and not use water in Preparation for doped Pt/TiO2?

what is the effect of using it?


And why the suspension irradiated with UV light .

what is the effect of using it?


Thank you in advance
 
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.Methanol is used as a solvent in the preparation of the Pt-TiO2 catalyst because it is able to dissolve hexachloroplatinic acid, which is the source of platinum in the catalyst, but water would not be able to dissolve it. Methanol also provides an environment that prevents the precipitation of TiO2 particles, so that the resulting suspension is uniform. The UV light is used to activate the photocatalytic properties of the Pt-TiO2 catalyst. The UV light causes electrons to become excited, which results in the formation of a charge-transfer complex between the Pt and TiO2. This is what allows the catalyst to absorb light and generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) that can breakdown pollutants in the environment.
 

1. What is the purpose of using methanol in the preparation of Pt/TiO2?

Methanol serves as a solvent in the preparation of Pt/TiO2, allowing for the dispersion of the Pt nanoparticles onto the TiO2 surface. It also helps to prevent agglomeration of the Pt particles, resulting in a more uniform distribution on the TiO2 surface.

2. Why is UV light used in the preparation of Pt/TiO2?

UV light is used to activate the TiO2 surface, making it more reactive and creating more surface sites for the Pt nanoparticles to bind to. This enhances the catalytic activity of the Pt/TiO2 composite.

3. Can other solvents be used instead of methanol?

Yes, other solvents such as ethanol or isopropanol can also be used in the preparation of Pt/TiO2. However, methanol is commonly used as it is a polar solvent that can effectively disperse the Pt nanoparticles onto the TiO2 surface.

4. Is UV light necessary for the preparation of Pt/TiO2?

Yes, UV light is necessary as it activates the TiO2 surface and enhances the catalytic activity of the Pt/TiO2 composite. Without UV light, the Pt nanoparticles may not bind effectively to the TiO2 surface, resulting in lower catalytic activity.

5. Are there any potential risks associated with using methanol and UV light in the preparation of Pt/TiO2?

Methanol is a flammable substance and caution should be taken when handling it. UV light can also be harmful to the skin and eyes, so proper protective equipment should be worn when working with it. It is important to follow proper safety protocols when working with these materials.

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