In this paper, we described a simple but effective sol–gel method
to fabricate a magnetite/silica/titania composite with strong
interface bonding and excellent photocatalystic performance. The
structure of the magnetic photocatalyst was studied intensively
using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR)
spectra and high resolution electron microscopy (HREM). The modification
of the surface of magnetite/silica by polyacrylic acid (PAA)
was found to be crucial for the deposition of titania nanocrystals.
With PAA, covalent bonds were formed between titania particles
and silica. Our study could offer a new sight for anchoring titania
nanoparticles onto silica surface.