This research intends to enhance the photocatalytic efficiency and durability of substrates coated with TiO2-based nanocomposites under visible light illumination. More specifically, TiO2/SiO2/graphene oxide nanocomposites are successfully sono-synthesized and sono-fabricated onto a polymeric fabric through a facile one-step method. The morphologies, phase structures and optical properties of the samples are studied. The photocatalytic activity of the functionalized samples is assessed through a gentian violet stain removal test and then photodecomposition of methylene blue under visible light, and tested again after 10 washes to check on its durability. It is corroborated that TiO2/SiO2/graphene oxide nanocomposites have shown significantly better visible light self-cleaning performance than just using the pure TiO2 alone. In addition, even after 10 washes, the samples virtually maintain the functionality. Herein, sono-synthesis of TiO2/SiO2/graphene oxide represents a remarkable step forward in visible light-driven self-cleaning treatment for flexible materials and, hence, holds a great potential for commercialization.
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