GO-TiO₂ as a Highly Performant Photocatalyst Maximized by Proper Parameters Selection

The synthesis and characterization of novel graphene oxide coupled to TiO₂ (GO-TiO₂) was carried out in order to better understand the performance of this photocatalyst, when compared to well-known TiO₂ (P25) from Degussa. Thus, its physical-chemical characterization (FTIR, XRD, N₂ isotherms and electrochemical measurements) describes high porosity, suitable charge and high electron mobility, which enhance pollutant degradation. In addition, the importance of the reactor set up was highlighted, testing the effect of both the irradiated area and distance between lamp and bulb solution. Under optimal conditions, the model drug methylthioninium chloride (MC) was degraded and several parameters were assessed, such as the water matrix and the catalyst reutilization, a possibility given the addition of H₂O₂. The results in terms of energy consumption compete with those attained for the treatment of this model pollutant, opening a path for further research.