Photocatalyic activity of double pore structure TiO2/SiO2 monoliths

The TiO2/SiO2 monoliths with macro- and mesopore structure have been synthsized by sol-gel method. The double pore structure was developed by adding polyethylene glycol and urea in the precurser solution. The morphology, crystallinity, surface area and porosity of the TiO2/SiO2 monoliths were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), N2 adsorption/desorption and mercury intrusion techniques. The photocatalytic activity and applicablity of the monoliths were investigated by degradation of methylene blue and purificaiton of actual dyeing and finishing wastewater. The result showed the prepared TiO2/SiO2 monolith to have enhanced photocatalytic activity, reusability and easy recovery, so it may be considered a promising material for practical application in wastewater treatment.