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61	Laponite-supported titania photocatalysts Daniel, Lisa Maree January 2007 (has links) This thesis describes the synthesis and characterisation of titania photocatalysts for incorporation into a polyethylene film. Monodisperse, anatase-phase titania nanoparticles are prepared and the synthesis conditions necessary for attraction to a laponite clay support are determined. Methods of preventing agglomeration of the laponite system such as the use of a polyethylene oxide surfactant or chemical modification of the laponite plate edges with a dimethyloctyl methoxysilane are also explored. Finally, photocatalytic studies on the laponite-supported titania nanoparticles are performed, and the compatibility and photoactivity of these materials in the polyethylene film are examined. Titania titanium dioxide anatase photoactivity photocatalyst clay colloid hydrothermal treatment laponite surfactant silane silylation edge-modification X-ray diffraction polymer degradation transmission electron microscopy infrared emission spectroscopy BET N2 sorption thermogravimetric analysis