Palladium oxide nanoparticles in a titanium oxide matrix have been found to have properties that can wipe out bacteria and work as a power source, according to an American research team.

The researchers from the University of Illinois have found that harnessing palladium oxide's optoelectronic properties in nanocomposite film can improve the efficiency of solar cells.

Meanwhile, another use was found in photocatalytic converters that wipe out harmful bacteria by using visible light.

Commenting on the research to optics.org, Jian Ku Shang of the Illinois faculty's science and engineering department, said: "The 'red shift' allows the photocatalyst to absorb visible light by extending the active region of the nanocomposite from UV to the visible.

"As a result, a greater portion of the solar spectrum may be used to drive electronic devices powered by this new material," he added.

Mr Shang intends to use the research findings to develop design sensors and photocatalytic reactors that use a nitrogen-doped TiO₂/PdO material.

The research team has filed patent applications in anticipation of the new technology's commercial uses.

Ÿ Adfero Ltd