Mechanistic Inquiry into TiO₂ Nanomaterial's Dye Degradation Ability

The novel titanium dioxide one-dimensional lepidocrocite nanomaterial (henceforth referred to as ‘1DL’) has demonstrated surprising morphologic, electronic, and catalytic properties. Specifically, 1DL has shown a remarkable capacity for the visible light-degradation of cationic dyes, which act as a proxy for organic industrial pollutants. However, the mechanism for this, especially as compared to the more widely-studied bulk P25 TiO₂, is not well-understood. Herein, we elucidate clues concerning the atom- and bond-level behavior of 1DL material to better optimize its photocatalytic performance. For instance, we demonstrate the varied effects of 1DL surface functionalizations, such as silanizations, alklyations, and others. Additionally, we investigate the hypsochromic reaction which occurs between cationic dyes and 1DL in the absence of light, something which is not observed in P25. These advances will aid in the continued development of 1DL’s exciting practical applications.