The coherence between TiO2 nanoparticles and microfibrillated cellulose in thin film for enhanced dispersal and photodegradation of dye

Microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) was used to enhance the dispersal and photocatalytic properties of TiO2 nanoparticles. With the small amount of MFC (0.1 wt.% or 0.3 wt.%), TEM images showed that particle agglomeration was greatly minimized due to the coherence between TiO2 nanoparticles and MFC. The surface area and pore volume of TiO2 nanoparticles was enhanced as proven in N-2 adsorption-desorption analysis. Thermogravimetric and Fourier transform infrared spectra further confirmed the presence of MFC in TiO2/MFC coating solution. Using commercial adhesive, TiO2 and TiO2/MFC were spray coated on polyvinyl chloride sheet. The photocatalytic thin films were examined using scanning electron microscope with Energy dispersive X-ray analysis. The presence of MFC was not only helpful to enhance particle dispersal but also supportive to increase the hydrophilicity of the thin film. In comparison to TiO2 coating, the films were capable to adsorb 50% more methylene blue in 90 min. TiO2/MFC coatings removed 90% of methylene blue dye in 90 min under UV irradiation.