Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles have attracted extensive attention in scientific research and industrial applications due to their unique physical, chemical and photocatalytic properties. This article will introduce the main properties of titanium dioxide nanoparticles in detail.
1. Optical properties
Titanium dioxide nanoparticles have remarkable optical properties, including high refractive index and strong light scattering ability. These properties make titanium dioxide nanoparticles widely used as white pigments in industries such as coatings, plastics, paper and cosmetics. In addition, titanium dioxide nanoparticles also exhibit superhydrophilicity and photoluminescence properties, which have important applications in self-cleaning materials and optoelectronic devices.
2. Surface properties
The surface properties of titanium dioxide nanoparticles have an important influence on their performance. Studies have shown that the surface of titanium dioxide nanoparticles changes after interacting with soil solutions. For example, the isoelectric point of rutile nanoparticles decreases after interacting with soil solutions, which may be due to deprotonation. Changes in surface properties can affect the photocatalytic activity and adsorption capacity of nanoparticles.
3. Photocatalytic properties
TiO2 nanoparticles are well known for their excellent photocatalytic properties. Under ultraviolet light, TiO2 nanoparticles can generate free radicals with strong oxidizing properties, which can degrade organic pollutants and kill microorganisms. Studies have shown that there are differences in the photocatalytic activity of anatase and rutile TiO2 nanoparticles, and rutile nanoparticles generally show higher photocatalytic activity.
4. Thermal stability
TiO2 nanoparticles have high thermal stability, with a melting point of about 1843°C and a boiling point of about 2972°C. This high thermal stability allows TiO2 nanoparticles to maintain their structure and properties under high temperature conditions, making them suitable for high temperature applications.
5. Biosafety
Although TiO2 nanoparticles have shown excellent performance in many fields, their biosafety is also a focus of research. Studies have shown that TiO2 nanoparticles may have toxic effects on organisms in some cases. For example, injection of TiO2 nanoparticles into the knee joint cavity may cause inflammatory reactions and other biological toxic effects. Therefore, the biosafety of TiO2 nanoparticles needs to be carefully considered when using them.
6. Application prospects
Titanium dioxide nanoparticles show broad application prospects in many fields. In addition to the traditional coatings and pigments industry, titanium dioxide nanoparticles also play an important role in environmental protection, energy conversion, biomedicine and other fields. For example, titanium dioxide nanoparticles can be used in water treatment, air purification, solar cells and antibacterial materials.
In short, titanium dioxide nanoparticles have become a hot spot for research and application due to their unique optical, surface and photocatalytic properties. However, its biosafety issues also need further research and attention to ensure its safe application in various fields.
