SEMINAR LMGP - 17/07/2024 - Lisa DEBLOCK

"TiO₂ and TiCuO photocatalytic films deposited by AA-MOCVD for marine antifouling applications "

PhD student, Lisa Deblock

LMGP

Abstract 

The field of environmentally friendly antifouling solutions has developed rapidly since the regulation of toxic marine antifouling coatings over the last two decades. In this study, we prepare non-toxic, corrosion-resistant TiO₂ films using AA-MOCVD, the photocatalytic properties of which contribute to their antifouling activity. We explore two strategies to enhance the photocatalytic properties of these films: (i) maximising the specific surface area using microstructures, and (ii) developing a TiO₂-Cu₂O composite to form a p-n heterojunction, which promotes electron-hole separation and reduces charge recombination during photocatalysis. The films are characterised and their photocatalytic and marine antibiofouling properties are investigated in this presentation.

Short Bio/CV

Coming from a material chemistry background, 3^rd year PhD student at LMGP working on thin film elaboration and their interaction with marine organisms.