A Novel Advanced Photocatalytic Coatings of TiO2-Fe3O4-Graphene Oxide via Aerosol

In this study, we explore the optimization of aerosol deposition (AD) parameters to achieve novel TiO₂-Fe₃O₄-graphene oxide composite coatings. AD is a promising technique for creating dense, adherent coatings at room temperature, particularly beneficial for materials sensitive to high temperatures. Our approach focused on systematically evaluating deposition parameters, including chamber pressure, gas flow rate, and sample holder speed, to optimize coating performance. Initial trials identified 2 torr as the optimal pressure, balancing particle dynamic energy and deposition efficiency. At this pressure, variations in sample holder speeds from 1 to 15 mm/s revealed that 4 mm/s provides the most uniform coating, with minimal delamination and enhanced surface coverage. Additionally, fine-tuning the gas flow rate to 10 slm resulted in the densest coatings with superior adherence and surface smoothness. High-resolution scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy confirmed the composite distribution, indicating a layered deposition sequence where graphene sheets settle first, followed by TiO₂ and Fe₃O₄ particles.Our findings highlight the impact of deposition parameters on coating morphology and performance, with implications for optimizing AD processes in functional coatings.