Advancements on Basic Working Principles of Photo-Driven Oxidative Degradation of Organic Substrates over Pristine and Noble Metal-Modified TiO2. Model Case of Phenol Photo Oxidation

The specific roles played by both support and noble metals in light absorption, charge separation, the formation of ·OH O2− (ROS) are analyzed for light-triggered oxidation phenol (Ph) over pristine metal (Ag, Au, Pt) -loaded TiO2. Experiments show that supported act as a visible absorber, assist separation photo-charges reduction O2 to O2−. oxidizes mildly Ph oxygenated products (hydroquinone, benzoquinone, 1,2-dihydroxibenzene). In parallel process, radicals, yielded TiO2, mineralize CO2 fast reaction sequences. Radical quenching photo electrochemical measurements (surface photovoltage) confirm independently production scale with oxidative conversion Ph. selectivity mild is result interplay between catalyst activity production.