Photoactivity of nanostructured porous Nb2O5: Effect of Pt, Ta, Cu, and Ti impregnation

Abstract

In the present work, we report the obtaining of nanostructured porous Nb₂O₅ by anodizing process, with Pt, Ta, Cu, or Ti impregnation, and by magnetron sputtering process. The techniques of scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to evaluate the morphology, and the composition and crystalline structure of nanoporous Nb₂O₅. The photocatalytic activity was evaluated by electrochemical photocurrent tests under UV light illumination. Nanostructured porous Nb₂O₅ with Pt, Ta, Cu, and Ti impregnation presented bandgap reduction and 10 times higher photocurrent density in the presence of UV light when compared to the not impregnated nanoporous Nb₂O₅.