Modified Metallic Oxides for Efficient Photocatalysis

Abstract

The aim of the chapter is to present modified materials like alternatives for conventional photocatalyst such as titanium dioxide. Discussion about silver/graphene nanoparticlesmodified zinc oxide for the degradation of pollutants like triclosan or bisphenol A, both considered as endocrine disruptors, which affect the hormonal development of humans, is presented. The best conditions to obtain the highest photodegradation degree are established. In addition, the bismuth oxychloride has gained attention during the last 5 years for photocatalysis. In accordance, the obtained results for phenol photodegradation, using such oxychloride, are also presented. In the chapter, the characterization of photocatalyst is reported along with the proposal for mechanisms of action for the modified ZnO photocatalyst and the bismuth oxychloride.