Effect of impurities in TiO2 thin films on trichloroethylene conversion

In this study, we investigate the physical properties and photocatalytic activities of TiO2 thin films doped with low valence (Fe3+, Co2+, and Ni2+) and high valence (Mo5+, Nb5+, and W6+) cations. Clear difference in results from various analytical tools between groups was identified. The presence of different oxidation states and a higher degree of crystallinity in the high valence cation doped-TiO2 thin films seemed beneficial in terms of the transfer and separation of photo-generated electrons and holes in the TiO2 medium and on the surface, resulting in higher photocatalytic conversion of trichloroetylene.