Characterization of photocatalytically active coatings based on TiO 2/Zn-Al layered double hydroxide on ceramic tiles

Abstract

The self-cleaning function (photocatalytic activity and surface hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity) is of great importance for ceramic tiles from both economic and environmental point of view. This research is focused on the preparation of suitable photocatalytic suspensions studying the influence of the photocatalyst powder amount and the molecular mass of polyethylene glycol (PEG) on the self-cleaning properties of the suspensions deposited on the ceramic tile surface. Photocatalysts based on Zn-Al double layered hydroxides with TiO2 as active component, were synthesized and used for the preparation of the suspensions. The coated tiles prepared using smaller photocatalyst amount and the highest investigated molecular mass of PEG (PEG 4000) showed the highest photocatalytic activity in the Rhodamine B degradation reaction, as well as the appropriate surface properties.