Optimizing nano TiO2 assisted decoloration process for industrial date syrup utilizing response surface methodology

Abstract

Titanium dioxide nanoparticle has been proposed to be capable of presenting new consequences in field of date syrup decoloration besides common industrial discoloring techniques like using carbon active. This nano structure was used as a photocatalyst in the presence of ultraviolet radiation to investigate the decrement in high color and turbidity of date syrup. Photocatalytic decoloration process was optimized using response surface methodology statistical design. The effect of TiO2 catalyst portion, date syrup concentration, dose of UV radiation (UV power multiple time of processing) on the qualitative characterization of the date syrup including color and reduced sugars content (glucose and fructose) was investigated. The optimum condition obtained by experimental design method was date syrup concentration 19.06°Brix, TiO2 content 3.81 g/l and dose 5,082.21 kJ. In this condition, 53% color, 5% glucose, and 3% fructose reduction was obtained. Practical applications Industrial date syrup is a common source of sugar which its consumption has been limited due to the presence of some coloring and turbidity agents. Thus Investigating new decoloration methods like nanotechnology which may reduce the colorants, as well as leaving less environmental pollution, seems necessary. The study offers using photocatalyst nanoparticle as a decolorant and obtaining the best decoloration condition by response surface methodology to get the least color and sugar loss in industrial date syrup.