Characterization of TiO sub(2)-Chitosan/Glass photocatalyst for the removal of a monoazo dye via photodegradation-adsorption process

• Published in: Journal of hazardous materials Vol. 164; no. 1; pp. 138 - 145
• Main Authors: Zainal, Z, Hui, L K, Hussein, M Z, Abdullah, AH, Hamadneh, I (KR
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 15-05-2009
• ISSN: 0304-3894; 1873-3336
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2008.07.154

In this paper, the newly explored TiO sub(2)-Chitosan/Glass was suggested as a promising alternative material to conventional means of wastewater treatment. Characterization of TiO sub(2)-Chitosan/Glass photocatalyst was studied with SEM-EDX, XRD, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis. The combination effect of photodegradation-adsorption process for the removal of methyl orange (MO), an acid dye of the monoazo series occur promisingly when four layers of TiO sub(2)-Chitosan/Glass photocatalyst was used for MO removal. Approximately, 87.0% of total MO removal was achieved. The reactive -NH sub(2), -OH, and metal oxide contents in the prepared photocatalyst responsible for the photodegradation-adsorption effect were confirmed by FTIR study. Similarly, MO removal behavior was well supported by SEM-EDX and XRD analysis. Significant dependence of MO removal on the TiO sub(2)-Chitosan loading can be explained in terms of relationship between quantum yield of photocatalytic reactions and photocatalyst structure/activity. Hence, the research work done thus far suggests a new method, having both the advantages of photodegradation-adsorption process in the abatement of various wastewater pollutants.