Novel composite photocatalyst made of TiO₂ nanoparticles

A novel photocatalyst based on TiO₂ nanoparticles was developed for application in fluidised bed photocatalytic reactors for water treatment. The mechanically robust photocatalyst consists of composite spheres made of TiO₂ nanoparticles and TiO₂ commercial powder. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and specific surface area analysis (BET) were used to characterise the catalyst. The photocatalytic activity was evaluated using model pesticide micro-pollutant. A complete model comprised of radiation, kinetic, and reactor bed models was also developed, allowing for detailed analysis of the photoreactor.