Title : Visible-light-active interfacial charge transfer complex: Photocatalytic and antimicrobial properties
Abstract:
Interfacial charge transfer complexes (ICTC) formed through interactions between metal oxide nanoparticles and polyphenolic ligands present an innovative approach to developing advanced nanomaterials with enhanced functional properties. These complexes induce a redshift in the absorption threshold of metal oxides, making them active under visible light instead of ultraviolet (UV) light. This significant shift broadens their application potential, particularly for sustainable photocatalytic processes such as the degradation of organic pollutants, including dyes, and hydrogen production as a renewable energy source. In addition to their photocatalytic capabilities, these nanocomposites demonstrate significant antimicrobial activity, making them effective against a variety of microbial strains. The inclusion of phenolic and polyphenolic ligands also reduces the toxicity of the original metal oxides, providing a safer alternative for environmental and biomedical applications.
This study explores the synthesis and characterization of these nanocomposites, focusing on their optical and structural properties. The photocatalytic performance under visible light, coupled with their antimicrobial efficacy, underscores their dual functionality. By modifying the physicochemical properties of the metal oxide core with phenolic ligands, these complexes achieve a balance between high efficiency and reduced toxicity. The findings suggest that these CTCs have significant potential for diverse applications, from environmental remediation to antimicrobial treatments, and pave the way for further advancements in nanotechnology.