Direct dye wastewater photocatalysis using immobilized titanium dioxide on fixed substrate

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Materials Science
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Photocatalysis is a viable technology for treating dye wastewater.
• Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a common photocatalyst but difficult to separate from water.
• Immobilizing TiO2 on substrates offers a solution to separation challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To immobilize TiO2 onto glass and iron beads for wastewater treatment.
• To investigate the effect of calcination temperature on TiO2 composite properties.
• To evaluate the photocatalytic efficiency and reusability of immobilized TiO2.

Main Methods:

• TiO2 was immobilized on glass and iron beads via spraying and calcination (600-750°C).
• Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) analyzed material composition and distribution.
• Photocatalytic degradation of direct dye was performed, followed by catalyst reuse tests.

Main Results:

• Optimal TiO2 distribution and mixed-phase (anatase/rutile) structure achieved at 700°C calcination.
• 64.0% direct dye photodegradation efficiency obtained within 4 hours.
• Immobilized TiO2 catalysts demonstrated high stability and reusability over two cycles.

Conclusions:

• Immobilized TiO2 on glass and iron beads is an effective and reusable solution for dye wastewater treatment.
• Calcination temperature significantly influences the performance of TiO2 composites.
• The developed method offers a practical approach to overcoming TiO2 separation issues in photocatalysis.