A ZrO2 coating solution containing ZrO2 photo-catalysis, which is transparent in visible light, was prepared by the hydrolysis of alkoxide, and thin films on the SiO2 glass substrate were formed in a dipcoating method. These thin films were heat-treated at temperatures ranging from 250˚C-800˚C and their characteristics were subjected to thermal analysis, XRD, spectrometry, SEM, EDS, contact angle measurement, and AFM. Tetragonal ZrO2 phase was found in the thin film heat treated at 450˚C, and anatase TiO2 phase was detected in the thin film heat-treated at 600˚C and above. The thickness of the films was approximately 300 nm, and the roughness was 0.66 nm. Thus, the film properties are excellent. The films are super hydrophilic with a contact angle of 4.0˚; moreover, they have self-cleaning effect due to the photo catalytic property of anatase TiO2.

The field of photocatalysis is one of the fastest growing areas both in research and commercial fields. Titanium dioxide is the most investigated semi-conductor material for the photocatalysis applications. Research to achieve TiO2 visible light activation has drawn enormous attentions because of its potential to use solar light. This paper reviews the attempts made to extend its visible photocatalytic activity by carbon doping. Various approaches adopted to incorporate carbon to TiO2 are summarized highlighting the major developments in this active research field. Theoretical features on carbon doping are also presented. Future scenario in the rapidly developing and exciting area is outlined for practical applications with solar light.