Synthesis and visible light photocatalysis of Fe-doped TiO 2 mesoporous layers deposited on hollow glass microbeads

Nano-composite of Fe-doped anatase TiO ₂ nanocrystals loaded on the hollow glass microbeads was prepared by co-thermal hydrolysis deposition and calcining treatment. The adherence of TiO ₂ mesoporous layers to the surfaces of hollow glass microbeads prevented the aggregation of TiO ₂ nanoparticles and benefited to their catalytic activity. The doping of Fe ions makes the absorption edge of the TiO ₂ based nano-composite red-shifted into the visible region. An effective photodegradation of the methyl orange aqueous solution was achieved under visible light ( λ>420 nm) irradiation, revealing the potential applicability of such nano-composite in some industry fields, such as air and water purifications.