Optimisation of Methyl Orange Photodegradation Using TiO2-Zeolite Photocatalyst and H2O2 in Acid Condition

Abstract

This paper discusses an optimisation of methyl orange photodegradation using TiO2-zeolite photocatalyst and H2O2 (with condition of pH 2, 10 ppm, UV light). A 15 mmol TiO2 in 1 gram activated zeolite was used. The influence of H2O2 concentration (4, 8, 12, 16%) and irradiation time (20, 30 40, 50, 60 minutes) was also investigated, as well as initial methyl orange concentration (10, 20, 30 ppm) toward reaction rate constant. As the H2O2 concentration increase, the photodegradation percentage is also increased until it reaches optimum condition (H2O212% for 10 ppm MO solution). Identical effect also showed by the irradiation time in which an optimum point reached at 60 minutes (for 10 ppm MO solution) and 50 minutes (for 20 and 30 ppm MO solutions). Moreover, the higher initial MO concentration used, the lower reaction rate constant obtained. The highest rate constant was shown by MO solution of 10 ppm. The reuse of TiO2-Zeolite photocatalyst remains effective and efficient in photodegradation of methyl orange in solution for up to 4 times.