Е-Публикации
Технически университет - София

Abstract: Ag and MnOx species were photodeposited at varying UV irradiation doses (DUV) in the 0 – 10 J cm−2 range, and their effects on film properties were evaluated through photoelectrochemical (PEC) measurements, and Methylene blue photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) screening. Results revealed that both Ag and MnOx functionalization exhibit an optimal DUV that maximizes PEC performance, with the Ag/TiO2 photoanode at DUV = 5 J cm−2 achieving a ∼20 % increase in photocurrent density compared to pristine TiO2. Conversely, MnOx functionalization consistently inhibited PEC and PCO activity, particularly at higher DUV. Mott–Schottky and EIS analyses confirmed improved charge separation and reduced charge-transfer resistance in optimally functionalized samples. Photodeposition-functionalized photoanodes outperformed dark-functionalized (0 J cm−2) ones, underscoring UV-assisted photodeposition as a flexible and effective surface modification strategy.

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