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Synthesis and Characterization of Quantum Size Metal Oxide Colloidal Particles. Photocatalytic Peroxide Formation on ZnO and TiO₂

Citation

Kormann, Claudius (1989) Synthesis and Characterization of Quantum Size Metal Oxide Colloidal Particles. Photocatalytic Peroxide Formation on ZnO and TiO₂. Dissertation (Ph.D.), California Institute of Technology. doi:10.7907/bya7-6g55. https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechETD:etd-05182007-110357

Abstract

The syntheses of transparent colloidal solutions of extremely small ZnO (d < 5nm) and TiO₂ (d < 3 nm) particles in water, alcohol, and acetonitrile are presented. Quantum size effects are observed during particle growth and at final stages of synthesis. They are qualitatively and quantitatively (TiO₂) interpreted by using a simple molecular orbital (MO) picture and a quantum mechanical model developed by Brus. The optical absorption and fluorescence properties as well as the surface acid-base properties are characterized in detail. The two materials are shown to be active photocatalysts in the formation and degradation of H₂O₂ and organic peroxides and in the degradation of chlorinated hydrocarbons. Quantum yields and steady state concentrations are given as function of various reaction parameters such as the oxygen concentration, the nature and concentration of electron donor, pH, and charge of the electron donor. Rates of reaction are correlated with surface speciation as calculated by the SURFEQL computer code. Transparent colloidal solutions of Fe₂O₃ (hematite) have also been prepared, however only negligible photocatalytic activity is found when compared to ZnO and TiO₂. Evidence is presented for OH radical activity when aqueous TiO₂ suspensions are illuminated at high pH.

Item Type:Thesis (Dissertation (Ph.D.))
Subject Keywords:Chemistry
Degree Grantor:California Institute of Technology
Division:Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
Major Option:Chemistry
Thesis Availability:Public (worldwide access)
Research Advisor(s):
  • Hoffmann, Michael R. (advisor)
  • Gray, Harry B. (co-advisor)
Thesis Committee:
  • Weinberg, William Henry (chair)
  • Hoffmann, Michael R.
  • Gray, Harry B.
  • Morgan, James J.
  • Lewis, Nathan Saul
  • Anson, Fred C.
Defense Date:8 November 1988
Funders:
Funding AgencyGrant Number
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)UNSPECIFIED
Record Number:CaltechETD:etd-05182007-110357
Persistent URL:https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechETD:etd-05182007-110357
DOI:10.7907/bya7-6g55
Related URLs:
URLURL TypeDescription
https://doi.org/10.1021/j100298a015DOIArticle adapted for Chapter 2.
https://doi.org/10.1021/j100329a027DOIArticle adapted for Chapter 3.
https://doi.org/10.1021/es00172a009DOIArticle adpated for Chapter 4.
https://doi.org/10.1021/bk-1987-0349.ch010DOIBook chapter adapted for Chapter 5.
https://doi.org/10.1016/1010-6030(89)87099-6DOIArticle adapted for Chapter 6.
Default Usage Policy:No commercial reproduction, distribution, display or performance rights in this work are provided.
ID Code:1862
Collection:CaltechTHESIS
Deposited By: Imported from ETD-db
Deposited On:18 May 2007
Last Modified:16 Aug 2021 19:29

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