Regeneration of nano-ZnO photocatalyst by the means of soft-mechanochemical ion exchange method

Nano-crystalline ZnO particles synthesized via an ion exchange method were used in a methyl-orange photocatalytic degradation process. An ion exchange resin mixed bed system was used in the suspension for separation of nano-ZnO and methyl-orange after photocatalysis reaction. Ion exchange resin, photocatalyst and water were mixed evenly by airflow. Nano-ZnO photocatalyst and soluble carboxyl zinc were gathered in the soft-mechanochemical process simultaneously. Ion exchange reaction ZnO photocatalyst and counterion transfer process on resin were all improved. Byproducts and other inorganic ions were transfered into resin phase. Nano-ZnO photocatalyst can be regenerated and reused.