Photocatalytic properties of silicone polyesters using calcium phosphate/titanium dioxide
Abstract
This study uses titanium dioxide treated with calcium phosphate to prepare multilayer structure composites. These products are regarded as photocatalysts. Utilizing polyethylene glycol (PEG)–silicone polyester as an adhesive spread on matrix surfaces, this can provide these products with antifouling properties, good weather resistance, and antibacterial property. It has been observed that UV irradiation has caused changes in the film molecular structure of PEG–silicone polyesters, as well as changes in the surface morphology. These changes in molecular structure have been observed by FTIR and Raman analysis. PEG–silicone polyesters contain silicon atoms with both organic and inorganic characteristics. This makes fixation of photocatalysts possible and retards oxidation of organic materials in the polyesters. The results of FTIR and Raman spectrum analyses indicate films made of these polyesters effectively cover calcium phosphate–titanium dioxide photocatalysts, retard surface cracks, and slow down decomposition, caused by UV light. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
