Preparation of TiO₂/ZnO composite catalysts and their photocatalytic activity for degradation of pentachlorophenol

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to report a novel preparation method of titanium dioxide (TiO₂)/zinc oxide (ZnO) composites with different mole ratios of TiO₂:ZnO and their photocatalytic activity.

Design/methodology/approach

TiO₂/ZnO composites are prepared by a facile route. X-ray diffraction (XRD), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and ultra-violet–visible diffuse reflectance spectra (UV-vis DRS) are used to characterize the products. Photocatalytic activity of the samples is evaluated by degradation of persistent organic pollutant pentachlorophenol under ultra-violet (UV) irradiation.

Findings

It is found that all the as-prepared TiO₂/ZnO composites not only have good catalytic activity under UV light irradiation, but also have excellent circulation stability. The optimal mole ratio of TiO₂:ZnO is 0.75:1.

Originality/value

This report presents a simple and rapid method for the preparation of TiO₂/ZnO composites with excellent photocatalytic activity. Experimental results could provide useful reference for the treatment of chlorophenols in the future.

Citation

Xie, J., Hao, Y., Li, M., Lian, Y. and Bian, L. (2017), "Preparation of TiO₂/ZnO composite catalysts and their photocatalytic activity for degradation of pentachlorophenol", World Journal of Engineering, Vol. 14 No. 4, pp. 279-283. https://doi.org/10.1108/WJE-08-2016-0066