TiO 2 /graphene oxide and SiO 2 nanocomposites based on poplar wood substrate under UV irradiation and negative oxygen ions generation

Abstract

Indoor air quality is crucial to human health because poor air quality can easily lead to disease. To improve indoor air quality, it is essential to increase the concentration of negative oxygen ions in the air. Consequently, it is necessary to design a material that can generate negative oxygen ions indoors. In this study, a wood-based functional material was developed by anchoring TiO 2 /graphene oxide (GO) and silica nanoparticles (SiO 2 ) onto wood. The results showed that the TiO 2 /GO- and SiO 2 -treated wood greatly enhanced the mechanical properties of the wood and increased the negative oxygen ion production to 1580 ions/cm3 after 60 min of ultraviolet irradiation, which met the standard for fresh air. These treated wood materials could fulfil the pursuit by an individual for a healthy and environmentally friendly life, and represents a highly promising material in the application of indoor decoration materials.