A new method for producing zinc oxide nanoparticles in the form of nanosheets for water purification systems has been developed at St. Petersburg State University (SPbSU). This was reported in the press service of the university.
One of the most promising methods for combating water pollution is photocatalysis. This process involves the use of semiconductor particles that, under the influence of light, destroy pollutant molecules as a result of a chemical reaction.
To create an effective photocatalyst, scientists synthesized a series of nanoparticles using the chemical deposition method. The resulting plates are about 20 nanometers thick and are called nanosheets.
Scientists added substances that create counterions to the reaction medium. It is they who contribute to the growth of crystals. This ensured the production of nanoparticles in the form of nanosheets.
To visualize the results, it is enough to imagine an ordinary leaf of a tree, it has a large surface on which dew drops form, and it is on it that contact with pollutants and their destruction occurs. However, such a leaf has a thickness and a thin lateral surface, the role of which cannot be underestimated. We have shown that it is she in nanosheets who is responsible for the formation of radicals — special forms of water molecules and oxygen dissolved in it, which destroy harmful molecules.
In addition, the zinc oxide used is non-toxic and has antibacterial properties. The developed approaches help to explain the effectiveness of the photocatalyst for various pollutants.
Earlier www1.ru reported that in Ivanovo they found a new way to decompose toxic waste using an ordinary light bulb.
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