THE APPLICATION OF TIO2 NANOPARTICLES ON WASTEWATER TREATMENT

Abstract

The combination of TiO2 nanoparticles (P25) and PVA (poly-vinyl alcohol) was studied as hybrid films of high photocatalytic efficiency and good transparency property. Optimization was made from four aspects, including curing temperature, film thickness, the feed ratio of P25/PVA and the solution volume used in the synthesis process. Results indicated that the optimum film performance was obtained with 150 degree, 0.25 mL drop volume, 1:1 P25/PVA and 30 mL solution volume. Higher temperature treatment could destroyed the active sites of the photocatalyst. Films with proper treatment showed good stability even under continually stirring environment at 300 rpm for 1 day. However, the stirring rate should not exceed 400 rpm. Microbial E.coli was found to be killed within 45 min under sunlight irradiation in the presence of the cast hybrid films. Another organic dye molecule, Rhodamine B (RhB) solution, could also be degraded at high efficiency.