Characterization of supported TiO2-based catalysts green-prepared and employed for photodegradation of malodorous DMDS

Titanium dioxide (TiO2)-based catalysts coated onto two supporting materials (Pyrex glass beads and porous polypropylene fibers) in laboratory have been prepared and characterized. A modified preparation process at low temperature involving the addition of distilled water, aqueous ammonia, and ferrous sulfate, respectively, was used to enhance the spontaneous precipitation of three TiO2-based catalysts. The Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area of three catalysts was ranged from 160.1 to 202.7 m2/g. The surface morphology of three catalysts was identified by a scanning electron microscopy equipped with an X-ray energy dispersive spectrometer. The photocatalytic degradation of dimethyldisulfide was investigated using the supported TiO2-based catalysts. The original dimethyldisulfide almost was degraded within 2 h. A similar photocatalytic activity on degrading dimethyldisulfide was demonstrated in comparison with commercial catalysts. Simplicity, low cost, low energy consumption, and solvent-free are the advantages of this proposed method which can be used to photodecompose environmental organic pollutants effectively without heat treatment.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► We prepare rutile-TiO2 based catalysts using a simple and eco-efficient method. ► TiO2 based catalysts coated on supporting materials have large BET surface areas. ► Supported TiO2 based catalysts efficiently degrade malodorous DMDS.