From a MOF to a photocatalyst: TiO2 that works with light

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is one of the most famous photocatalysts: when light hits it, it generates energy capable of degrading pollutants or driving chemical reactions.

The challenge is to obtain the most efficient TiO2 possible. In this work we produced it in an unusual way: starting from a MOF called NTU-9 as a mould or precursor.

When we transform the MOF into TiO2, the material inherits part of the porosity and the organization of the original structure. The result is a photocatalyst with more active surface and therefore greater efficiency.

It is another example of a recurring idea in my research: MOFs are not only a destination, they are also an excellent starting point for making other functional materials.