Stable photocatalytic activity of immobilized Fe0/TiO2/ACF on composite membrane in degradation of 2,4-dichlorophenol

To increase the activity of immobilized catalyst by synergetic effect of adsorption and to extend the activity of Fe0, a composite membrane with Fe0, activated carbon fiber (ACF) and TiO2 was prepared, using dip-coating, impregnation and chemical reduction methods. The activity of the prepared membrane was evaluated for mineralizing 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4DCP) in water under UV illumination. The co-presence of Fe0 and TiO2 enhanced 2,4DCP degradation. ACF addition and its adsorption effect were shown in promoting 2,4DCP mineralization and TOC removal by comparing activities of composite membranes with Fe0/TiO2/ACF or Fe0/TiO2. Effects of pH and iron loading ratio to TiO2 on degradation rate of 2,4DCP using the composite membrane were investigated and optimized. The optimal pH was 6 and the optimal loading of Fe0 was 1 wt% to TiO2. The repeated test results and XRD patterns of catalysts before and after reaction proved that the Fe0/TiO2/ACF membrane was durable and stable in its photocatalytic activity.