The aim of this doctoral dissertation is chemical synthesis of titania based
catalyst in forms of thin film and powder. Catalysts in the form of a thin film
were prepared by the dip coating technique using an evaporation-induced,
self-assembly method (EISA), with the use of selected polymers as a
template (Pluronic F127 and PSM02). Titania based catalysts in powder
form were prepared by modified sol-gel method. Catalysts were then
modified with a selected dopant (ZrO2).
The effects of various process parameters during the synthesis process of the
catalysts were studied such as: pH value, calcination temperature etc. In
addition, a number of key parameters in the preparation of TiO2 in the form
of thin film as well as the (gas) atmosphere for the activation of the catalyst
were also considered.
Q4.16.01 - Izdawe 1
A complete physico-chemical characterization of photocatalysts
(investigation of textural, structural, morphological, thermal, surface
properties of the catalys...ts) was performed.
The catalysts were tested in the reactions of the photocatalytic degradation
and/or conversion of selected dyes (methylene blue and crystal violet) and
the degradation and/or conversion of the selected pesticide (2,4-
dichlorophenoxyacetic acid).
Various process parameters were investigated such as: the impact of the
initial concentrations of pollutants, the number of repeated cycles of
reaction, the catalyst amounts, the wavelength of radiation, duration of UV
irradiation treatment, pH of the tested solution in order to optimize the
process parameters.
In addition, the antimicrobial activity, against selected bacterial species, of
the synthesized TiO2-based materials in the form of powder and thin film
was investigated. The obtained results were discussed in order to determine
the optimum process parameters of the photocatalytic reactions, and to
achieve a more favorable degradation effect or conversion of pollutants.
Physico-chemical characteristics of the obtained catalyst materials have
been associated (correlated) with photocatalytic efficiency/activity.
Optimisation refers to the complete design and synthesis of (different) titania
based catalysts, followed by physico-chemical properties of the catalysts and
numerous process parameters of the photocatalytic process in the application
of heterogeneous catalysts.
Faculty:
University of Niš, Faculty of Science and Mathematics
