Comparison of Cr and Sr doping into TiO2 for photocatalytic removal of gaseous 1,2 dichloroethane

Abstract

1,2-dichloroethane/DCE, a volatile organic compounds (VOCs), can carry out damage to human health and be emitted from various industrial activities. Therefore, development of an eco-friendly process for removal of DCE is critical to improve the air quality index and further protect human health. Photocatalytic activity has been recognized as an efficient strategy in removing various types of VOCs. Owing to its compatibility to be conducted under mild condition, photocatalytic reaction is also favorable. Performance of TiO2, a widely applied photocatalyst, can be improved by the doping of various metal elements, like Sr and Cr. Besides, the doping process might also promote the suitability of photocatalyst to be operated under visible light. This study explored performance of various ratios of Sr/TiO2 and Cr/TiO2 under illumination of UV light. 0.01 %Sr/TiO2 achieved the best DCE removal and was further applied examination using various temperatures, along with concentration of DCE and O2. The presence of O2 played an important role during the photocatalytic reaction. Characterization, reaction kinetics study, and analysis of byproducts were also investigated in this study. A short-extended assessment was also applied to examine the performance under blue light and white light illumination. Contrary, Cr performed the best DCE photocatalytic removal under the supply of visible light.