Wei Zhao, Wanhong Ma, Chuncheng Chen, Jincai Zhao^*, and Zhigang Shuai

To promote efficient use of solar energy, many studies have focused on the modification of TiO₂ to extend its spectral response to visible region. Here we report a combined modification of TiO₂ by two components: the nonmetal element boron and the metal oxide Ni₂O₃. The photocatalyst presents high photocatalytic activity in the visible region, which can efficiently degrade and mineralize toxic organic pollutants such as trichlorophenol (TCP), 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP), and sodium benzoate. The dechlorination and mineralization results indicate the photocatalytic pathway via visible light excitation. The study demonstrates that the modification of TiO₂ both to extend its spectral response to the visible region and to improve its catalytic efficiency can be achieved by doping with boron, a nonmetal, and Ni₂O₃, a metal oxide.

J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2004, 126, 4782