The aim of this subject is focused on the photocatalytically active nanocomposites and covers the area of their laboratory preparation, manufacturing, properties and their utilization. Different kinds of nanocomposites based on selected matrix for growing of the nanoparticles will be discussed with special focus on their photocatalytic activity. One part is also dedicated to the application of photocatalysts in building industry, paint industry, also for the treatment of water and air, solar cell manufacturing, production of hydrogen. The preparation of the surfaces with antibacterial properties is also discussed.
The topics covered by this subject can be devided into following parts:
• Photocatalysts (principle of their function, activation of the photodegradation activity, basic concepts of photodegradation of organic substances, nitrogen oxides, photocatalytic decomposition of water, photocatalysts based on the oxides and sulphides, dopation of the photocatalyst)
• Photocatalysts carriers (natural phyllosilicates, molecular sieves, silicon oxide, aluminium oxide, carbonaceous materials, metal matrix, polymers).
• Preparation of the photocatalyticaly active nanocomposites (chemical methods, mechanical methods, physical methods).
• Charcterization of the photocatalytically active nanocomposites (determination of the band gap value, quantum yield of the photodegradation reactions, determination of the chemical and phase composition, characterization of the surface morphology of the photocatalysts, determination of the photodegradation activity of the nanocomposites in liquid and gas phase).
• Real application of the nanocomposites (building and paint industry, cleaning of the water, cleaning of the ait etc.).