A study of morphology and Optical properties of nano engineered (Au/Cu/ TiO2) composites

Gold and Copper tailored titania (Au/Cu/TiO₂) nanocomposites were synthesized by a modified sol gel method and their morphology and optical properties were studied using various techniques. XRD patterns confirmed the presence of pure anatase phase of TiO₂, and an enhanced visible response was found in the absorption spectrum of gold modified Cu/TiO₂ and Au/Cu/TiO₂ nanocomposites. These doped nanoparticles exhibited low photoluminescence emission intensity which is better for enhancement of photocatalytic activity as discussed. In addition, qausi-spherical morphology of nanoparticles was observed in Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM) images. These nano-engineered materials could be applied in various applications such as energy harvesting surfaces like solar cells, hydrogen production using water splitting, CO₂ conversion into value added products like methanol for fuel cells, waste water treatment by degradation of organic and inorganic pollutants and disinfection of water, and last not least as optical sensors.