Photocatalysis on TiO2 surfaces: principles, mechanisms, and selected results

The rate of chemical transformation in a heterogeneous photocatalysis system involving TiO2 surfaces is dependent on the photoactivity of the absorbate molecules and the catalyst substrates. Electron transfer takes place between the absorbate molecules in an inert oxide substrate. The catalyst only creates a regulated atmosphere for a better molecular interaction and does not get involved in the photoexcitation or chemical reaction process.