Floatable superhydrophobic Ag2O photocatalyst without a modifier and its controllable wettability by particle size adjustment

Abstract

In this research, a controlling mechanism of particle size on the wettability of Ag₂O particles is reported, and an interesting floatable Ag₂O photocatalyst with superhydrophobicity and superoleophilicity is prepared based on this mechanism. Stable superhydrophobic and superhydrophilic Ag₂O without a low-surface-energy modifier can be obtained only by adjusting its particle size, and its wettability can switch mutually by changing the particle size. The wettability of Ag₂O converts from superhydrophilic to hydrophobic when the average particle size is more than 1.08 μm. The operation parameters of the Ag₂O crystallization process significantly influence the wettability of the Ag₂O particles. The obtained superhydrophobic Ag₂O floated on the water surface, and exhibited excellent photodegradation performance with various floating oils. This attractive superhydrophobic Ag₂O photocatalyst is promising for practical applications, and provides a strategy for the development of functional photocatalysts and superhydrophobic materials.