Facial synthesis of K0·3WO3/Ag nanocomposites for self-cleaning energy efficient window coatings.

Ag nanoparticles were uniformly attached to the surface of K 0 · 3 WO 3 nanorods by the chemical reduction method. The photocatalytic performance and NIR shielding property of the nanocomposites could be regulated by changing the mass ratio of Ag to K 0 · 3 WO 3. The NIR shielding ability of the nanocomposites was as high as 49.8%. The prepared K 0 · 3 WO 3 /Ag nanocomposites exhibited improved visible photocatalytic performance, resulting in an enhanced self-cleaning property of K 0 · 3 WO 3 /Ag films. The improvement in visible photocatalytic activity of the K 0 · 3 WO 3 /Ag nanocomposites could be attributed to the improved separation efficiency of photo-generated carriers. Furthermore, K 0 · 3 WO 3 /Ag coated glass can reduce the interior temperature of the heat box by 2.4 °C. Therefore, the integration of good visible light transmittance, superior visible photocatalytic self-cleaning property, and strong NIR shielding performance make K 0 · 3 WO 3 /Ag nanocomposites good candidates for smart window coatings. Image 1 • K 0 · 3 WO 3 /Ag nanocomposites were prepared. • The nanocomposites exhibit good visible light transmittance. • The nanocomposites can shield nearly 50% of near-infrared light. • The nanocomposite coatings show superior thermal insulation performance. • The nanocomposite coatings exhibit enhanced self-cleaning property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]