Photocatalysis is a process in which light is used to initiate or accelerate a chemical reaction. This process involves the use of a photocatalytic catalyst, which can absorb photons and transfer light energy to the substrate of the reaction, thereby triggering a series of chemical reactions.
Photocatalysis offers many advantages, such as energy efficiency, reaction selectivity and the ability to operate under mild temperature and pressure conditions. It is also considered an environmentally friendly technology as it uses renewable solar energy.
APEL Laser can provide solutions and equipment for photocatalysis, including appropriate illumination systems, Raman spectrometers and other instruments for monitoring and characterizing photocatalytic reactions. This equipment can help to study and optimize photocatalytic processes, as well as to develop new photocatalytic materials and catalysts. Applications of photocatalysis:
Water purification: Photocatalysis can be used to remove organic and inorganic contaminants from water. This includes the removal of pesticides, toxic chemicals and even bacteria and other micro-organisms.
Hydrogen production: Photocatalysis can be used to decompose water into hydrogen and oxygen using light energy. This hydrogen can then be used in clean energy production and other industrial applications.
CO2 conversion: Photocatalysis can play an important role in converting carbon dioxide (CO2) into valuable compounds such as hydrocarbons or other useful chemicals. This contributes to reducing CO2 emissions and adding value to this greenhouse gas.
Photodegradation of pollutants: Photocatalysis can be used to photodegrade and remove organic pollutants from air and water. This includes the removal of hazardous chemicals, dyes, pesticides and other toxic compounds.
Organic synthesis: Photocatalysis can be used to facilitate organic synthesis, enabling more efficient and selective reactions. It can be applied in the production of drugs, fine chemicals and other important organic compounds.
Self-cleaning and self-washing: Photocatalysis can be applied to surfaces coated with a photocatalytic layer, which exhibits dirt self-degrading and self- washing properties through interaction with light and air:
Photocatalysis can be used to improve the efficiency of solar panels and photovoltaic devices by improving light absorption, generation and separation of electron-hole pairs and reducing losses through adverse reactions.