Photocatalytic degradation of phenol in water using TiO2 and ZnO

Photocatalytic degradation of chemical pollutants in water was investigated using semiconductor oxide catalysts, zinc oxide (ZnO) and titanium dioxide (TiO2) and phenol as the substrate. Influence of various parameters such as characteristics of the catalyst, irradiation time, substrate and catalyst concentrations, pH etc. has been studied and optimum conditions for the complete degradation of phenol in water have been identified. In terms of activity and durability TiO2 is far superior to ZnO. Mixing ZnO with TiO2 does not affect its activity significantly. The process is especially relevant in view of its potential for the treatment of wastewater containing pollutants, using solar radiation as the energy source.