Synthesis and Characterization of Titanium Dioxide-Based Nanocomposites for Visible-Light-Driven Degradation of Emerging Organic Contaminants

Abstract

Emergence of various organic compounds as emerging contaminants in water bodies has increased the demand for wastewater treatment techniques. Existing wastewater treatment methods might not remove pharmaceuticals, pesticides, dyes, and other persistent organic compounds. Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) has been widely researched in terms of its photocatalytic properties. However, the wide band gap of TiO₂ and the fast recombination of electrons and holes reduce the efficiency of TiO₂ under visible light irradiation. This work offers to synthesize and characterize TiO₂-based nanocomposites for efficient visible light-mediated degradation of organic contaminants. Novelty of the suggested research includes preparation of the modified TiO₂ nanocomposites with enhanced properties related to visible light absorption, separation of charges, and photocatalytic activity. Proposed methodology includes synthesis and characterization of nanocomposites with the help of XRD, SEM, TEM, FTIR, UV–Vis DRS, PL, and BET methods. Photocatalytic studies will include the study of contaminant degradation through the use of visible light radiation by analyzing the factors like catalyst concentration, pollutant concentration, exposure period, and solution pH. The efficiency of degradation, reaction kinetics, and mineralization will be analyzed using suitable analysis procedures. From the anticipated results, it can be seen that the modified TiO₂ nanocomposites will exhibit better visible light utilization ability, lower charge recombination rates, and greater contaminant removal ability compared to unmodified TiO₂.