Comparison of NaNbO₃ and NaTaO₃ as the photocatalysts in the reaction of hydrogen generation

The photocatalytic production of hydrogen over several chemical compounds based on sodium niobates and tantalates has been investigated. The photocatalysts have been prepared by an impregnation method of Nb₂O₅ and Ta₂O₅ in the aqueous solution of sodium hydroxide and then the calcination at the temperature range of 450 - 800°C. In this report, we present the study showing that of the catalysts explored, the highest photocatalytic activity was shown in a sample obtained at the temperature of 450°C and containing NaTaO₃ as a main phase.