embodiments of the present disclosure combine a suitable photocatalyst with a non - conducting matrix such as plastic , glass or rubber for the purpose of the production of activated electrons , needed in the creation of hydrogen peroxide , in the presence of light of a suitable frequency or frequencies and water . a suitable photocatalyst such as anatase titanium dioxide is combined with a plastic such as polypropylene as one would a pigment . the impregnated plastic can be immersed in water whereupon activated electrons and holes are produced on the surface of the photocatalyst upon irradiation . activated electrons are an excellent oxidizer , disinfectant , purifier and go on to kill bacteria , algae , etc . in the water , as well as to reduce water hardness including mineral deposits . unused hydrogen peroxide breaks down into hydrogen ion and free oxygen in a short time .