Synthesis and visible light photocatalysis of Fe-doped TiO2 mesoporous layers deposited on hollow glass microbeads

Nano-composite of Fe-doped anatase TiO2 nanocrystals loaded on the hollow glass microbeads was prepared by co-thermal hydrolysis deposition and calcining treatment. The adherence of TiO2 mesoporous layers to the surfaces of hollow glass microbeads prevented the aggregation of TiO2 nanoparticles and benefited to their catalytic activity. The doping of Fe ions makes the absorption edge of the TiO2 based nano-composite red-shifted into the visible region. An effective photodegradation of the methyl orange aqueous solution was achieved under visible light (λ>420 nm) irradiation, revealing the potential applicability of such nano-composite in some industry fields, such as air and water purifications. - Graphical abstract: Nano-composite of Fe-doped anatase TiO2 nanocrystals loaded on the hollow glass microbeads was prepared by co-thermal hydrolysis deposition. Photodegradation of the methyl orange was achieved under visible light irradiation, revealing the potential applicability of such nano-composite in some industry fields.