Synthesis, characterization, and catalytic activity of FeTiO3/TiO2 for photodegradation of organic pollutants with visible light Article uri icon

abstract

  • High-purity ilmenite, FeTiO3, was prepared by the sol-gel method and calcination under nitrogen atmosphere. Several FeTiO3/TiO2 catalysts were prepared by the impregnation method using ilmenite and titania, both synthesized by the sol-gel method with ethanol and acetic acid. FeTiO3/TiO2 photocatalysts exhibited significant absorption in the ultraviolet (UV) region with an energy bandgap between 2.9 and 3.1 eV. These materials are more active than titania (Degussa P25) for degradation of Orange G and 4-chlorophenol under illumination from a visible-light lamp. This effect may be attributed to the formation of a heterojunction at the point of contact between FeTiO3 and TiO2 particles. However, 4-chlorophenol is mineralized via formation of hydroquinone and benzoquinone, indicating that when illuminated with a solar emulator lamp, the materials did not generate enough HO· radicals to promote formation of benzenetriol and catechol. © 2015 Springer Science%2bBusiness Media Dordrecht.

publication date

  • 2016-01-01