Superior Co-catalysis by Bimetallic Nanostructure for TiO2 Photocatalysis

Background:: Bimetallic nanocomposites have currently gained significant importance for enhanced catalytic applications relative to monometallic analogues. The synergistic interactions modified electronic and optical properties in the bimetallic (M1@M2) structural morphology e.g., coreshell /alloy nanostructures resulting in a better co-catalytic performance for TiO2 photocatalysis. Objective:: Hence, this article discusses the preparation, characterization, and co-catalytic activity of different bimetallic nanostructures namely, Cu@Zn, Pd@Au, Au@Ag, and Ag@Cu, etc. Methods: These bimetallic co-catalysts deposited on TiO2 possess the ability to absorb visible light due to surface plasmonic absorption and are also expected to display the new properties due to synergy between two distinct metals. As a result, they reveal the highest level of activity than the monometal deposited TiO2. Results: Their optical absorption, emission, charge carrier dynamics, and surface structural morphology are explained for the improved photocatalytic activity of M1@M2 loaded TiO2 for the hydrogenation of certain organic compounds e.g., quinoline, crotonaldehyde, and 1,3-dinitrobenzene, etc. under UV/ visible light irradiation. Conclusion:: It was revealed that the use of bimetallic core@shell co-catalyst for hydrogenation of important industrial organics by M1@M2-TiO2 nanocomposite demonstrates beneficial reactivity in many instances relative to conventional transition metal catalysts.