Synthesis and characterization of nanocomposites of transition metal oxides with potential application for remediation of environmental loads (Mobility)

Photocatalytic activity on the surface of nanoparticles dispersed in polluted wastewater and irradiated with sunlight depends on their ability to generate electron-hole pairs and free hydroxyl and oxygen radicals capable of secondary reactions. ZnO nanoparticles with a strong redox ability can only perform under UV irradiation. The solution to this problem lies in heterojunction driven by visible light to enhance photocatalytic efficiency by broadening the absorption spectral range while suppressing electron hole recombination. The nanocomposites will be prepared by coupling a homogeneous precipitation method with hydrothermal techniques and doped with various elements. The project provides a platform for close interdisciplinary research between the Institute of Physics in Prague and the Institute of Chemistry in Bratislava leading to a more detailed understanding of the surface properties of semiconductor-based nanocomposites and its interaction in the aquatic environment in order to improve their photocatalytic properties demonstrated by photodegradation of dye methylene blue.