Multi-modal TiO2-LaFeO3 composite films with high photocatalytic activity and hydrophilicity

In this paper, a series of multi-modal TiO2-LaFeO3 composite films have been successfully synthesized through a two-step method. The resultant films were characterized in detail by several testing techniques, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflection spectrum (UV-vis DRS), photoluminescence spectrum (PL), surface photovoltage spectroscopy (SPS) and water contact angle measurements. The photocatalytic activity of different films was evaluated for degrading Methylene Blue (MB) aqueous solution. Hydrophilicity of the obtained TiO2-LaFeO3 composite films was also investigated. The results show that TL film and LT film exhibited superior photocatalytic activity and hydrophilicity. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.