Alternative methods of wastewater treatment are currently being investigated. Since 1985, titanium dioxide (TiO2) has been considered a possible substitute treatment option; however, because of the large band gap (3.0 eV for rutile and 3.2 eV for anatase), it cannot effectively absorb in the visible light. In an attempt to improve the photocatalytic efficiency and cost effectiveness for application in water treatment processes, modified TiO2 materials were synthesized. Metal doping of TiO2 extends the absorption band of the photocatalyst into the visible region which may render it a visible-light activated catalyst. Moreover, doping titanium dioxide with metals may also prevent electron hole recombination, thereby increasing the efficiency of photocatalysis.
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