Boosting the Mechanical Strength and Photocatalytic Activity of 3D-Printed Titania Aerogels by Atomic Layer Deposition and Heat Treatment.

ABSTRACT: Titania aerogels are highly porous materials optimal for photocatalysis due to their high surface area. Further spatial structuring by 3D printing improves gas diffusion in the aerogel, leading to a higher photocatalytic activity. However, the aerogel's mechanical properties are reduced in comparison to non-3D printed aerogels. We hereby present an approach based on atomic layer deposition (ALD) of subnanometer-thin TiO₂ layers to compensate for that detrimental effect. The ALD-deposited TiO₂ consists of amorphous and anatase phase, with the anatase phase likely crystallizing on the aerogel's crystallites. Nanoindentation measurements confirm that the TiO₂ ALD-coatings improve the aerogel's mechanical properties. Additionally, it enhances the photocatalytic

SUBMITTER: Schmidt MM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12810030 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature