Photocatalytic Degradation of Dye CI Direct Blue 78 Using TiO2 Nanoparticles Immobilized on Recycled Wool-Based Nonwoven Material

Abstract

This paper discusses the possibility of immobilization of TiO2 nanoparticles onto recycled wool-based nonwoven material, which can be utilized for removal of dyes from wastewater. The photocatalytic activity of TiO2 nanoparticles deposited on the nonwoven material was evaluated in the aqueous solution of direct dye C.I. Direct Blue 78 under the UV illumination. Nonwoven material modified with TiO2 nanoparticles provides complete removal of dye from the solution already after 4-6h of UV illumination. However, photodegradation of the dye adsorbed on the nonwoven material was obtained within 24h of UV illumination. The rate of dye adsorption and photodegradation depends on the amount of deposited TiO2 nanoparticles. The increase of initial dye concentration induced decrease in photocatalytic efficiency of immobilized TiO2 nanoparticles. The highest photodegradation rate was achieved in acidic conditions. Elevated temperatures positively affected the removal of dye from solution. Photocatalytic activity of TiO2 nanoparticles deposited on nonwoven material was preserved after three photodegradation cycles.