Experimental assessment of the pH effect and ions on the photocatalytic activity of iron-doped titanium dioxide supported on polystyrene pellets: Batch and continuous tests

Experimental tests in batch and continuous modes studied the impact of pH and the presence of inorganic ions on the photocatalytic properties of a visible light-activated titanium oxide catalyst doped with iron. Significantly enhanced photocatalysis was observed in the presence of nitrate and iron ions, while chloride hindered adsorption using Rhodamine B. A strong correlation between pH and photocatalytic performance was noted, along with a connection between the adsorption of the target molecule on the catalyst and subsequent photocatalytic degradation. Supporting the catalyst with polystyrene pellets reduced photocatalytic performance. However, catalyst reuse for four cycles and optimal dosages were achieved. In a continuous system, consistent chemical efficiency was maintained. Over 8 days, removal rates remained around 35 % and 43 % in presence of NO3–. Mechanically, no catalyst loss from the support was observed. These findings set the stage for potential industrial-scale applications.