摘要 |
Provided is a method for synthesising a substantially size homogenous composition of titanium (IV) oxide (titania) nanoparticles comprising, synthesising a titania inorganic crystalline matrix within a sol gel reaction process under conditions that constrain the growth of the matrix such that a majority of the nanoparticles are of a narrow size distribution in the composition and do not exceed a maximum diameter of around l00nm. The sol gel reaction process can occur under aqueous conditions, or within an organic polymer matrix under non-aqueous conditions. Aqueous dispersions and pastes comprising the substantially size homogenous composition of titanium (IV) oxide nanoparticles are also provided. The titanium (IV) oxide nanoparticles demonstrate improved photoactivity when exposed to UV irradiation, and can also include visible light absorbing centres such that activity is extended into the visible light range. |