Mutual influence of cupric cations and several anions in anatase and rutile TiO2 photocatalysis

Copper ions in aqueous solution are known to promote organic oxidation semiconductor photocatalysis, but the counter anions seem be important as well. In this work, performance of Cu(ClO4)2 presence several sodium forms (F−, Cl−, ClO4−, NO3−, and SO42−) has been examined. Phenol (pH 4) under UV light was used model reaction TiO2 anatase (AT) rutile (RT) photocatalysts. On addition 0.1–5 mM Cu2+, reactions on AT RT all increased. 1 anions, increased by F−and SO42−, decreased. 3 however, decreased except NO3−. Such anion effects were also observed for H2 production Cu2+ 10% methanol. A possible mechanism positive negative is discussed. This work indicates that formation a Cu(II)/Cu(I) complex with weakens effect copper photocatalysis.