Alkali Niobate and Tantalate Perovskites as Alternative Photocatalysts. Issue 21 (21st September 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zlotnik, Sebastian; Tobaldi, David M.; Seabra, Paula; Labrincha, João A.; Vilarinho, Paula M.
• Is Part Of: Chemphyschem. Volume 17:Issue 21(2016)
• Page Start: 3570
• Page End: 3575
• Publication Date: 2016-09-21
• Subjects: methylene blue -- niobium -- perovskite phases -- photocatalytic degradation -- tantalum; Chemistry, Physical and theoretical -- Periodicals; 541.05
• DOI: 10.1002/cphc.201600476
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1439-4235

Abstract

Abstract: Alkali tantalates and niobates are listed as important photocatalysts for the development of renewable energy technologies and environmental remediation. Herein, the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue dye in aqueous solution by using highly crystalline particles with perovskite‐like structures, LiTaO3, LiNbO3, NaTaO3, NaNbO3, KNbO3, and KTaO3, is investigated. It is demonstrated that ferroelectric KNbO3 is the most efficient photocatalyst of those tested because it combines an electronic band structure that can respond successfully to UVA light with a relatively high surface energy that enhances the catalytic properties. Additionally, the built‐in electric field due to internal polarization of ferroelectric particles may contribute to the unique properties of this functional photocatalyst. This work provides an ideal platform for the rational design of more efficient ferroelectric‐based photocatalytic devices. Abstract : Dye degradation : The photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue dye using alkali tantalate and niobate particles with perovskite‐like structures is evaluated and correlated to the band structure, surface energy and irradiation spectrum. Functional photocatalysts, such as ferroelectric KNbO3, are promising alternatives for environmental remediation.