Functionalizing slag wool fibers with photocatalytic activity by anatase TiO2 and CTAB modification

Anatase TiO2 coatings prepared by solvothermal process in a neutral ethanol solution of isopropyl titanate at 160 °C have been grown on slag wool fibers (SWF) which were modified by hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) in advance. X-ray diffraction patterns confirmed the coatings are of a nanocrystalline anatase structure, and scanning electron microscopy observations and energy-dispersive X-ray spectrum revealed a continuous coverage of TiO2 formed on the fiber surfaces. The photocatalytic activity of the samples was tested by the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) solution. The results show that CTAB modified slag wool fibers (CMSWF) are not a suitable adsorbent for MB due to their weaker negative surface charges. Anatase TiO2 coated CMSWF display higher photocatalyst activity than anatase TiO2 coated SWF without CTAB modification, and Anatase TiO2 coated CMSWF are relatively stable under UV-light irradiation.