Hybrid organic PVDF–inorganic M–rGO–TiO2 (M = Ag, Pt) nanocomposites for multifunctional volatile organic compound sensing and photocatalytic degradation–H2 production†
Abstract
This work focused on the development of a hybrid organic–inorganic TiO2 nanocomposite, which demonstrates the first ever report on harmful volatile organic compound (VOC) sensing and photocatalytic degradation–H2 production. The sensing and photocatalytic properties are enhanced by the synergetic effects of well-structured TiO2 nanotubes, metal nanoparticles and reduced graphene oxide loading for enhanced light absorption and charge-transfer kinetics. Hybridization of a functionalized TiO2 nanocomposite with a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) matrix induced strong cross-linking networks between the inorganic–organic components, which promote mechanical reinforcement-flexibility and highly porous asymmetric structures. The developed solution processable nanocomposite has immense potential to remedy the global environmental and energy issues by producing clean water/air and energy from organic compound waste.