Bifunctional TiO2 – cellulose based nanocomposites for synergistic adsorptive-photocatalytic removal of methyl orange: Response modelling and optimization
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Removal of azo dyes from aquatic environments represents a global challenge. Herein, by utilizing the waste of mandarin peels as a cellulose source (MP500), a bifunctional adsorbent-photocatalyst, TiO 2 @MP500, has been prepared via a one-pot hydrothermal synthesis. Taking advantage of this dual role, remediation of methyl orange (MO) has been successfully addressed. Characterization tools corroborated the anchoring of TiO 2 and the successful synthesis of TiO 2 @MP500. SEM/EDX/TEM analyses confirmed the formation of TiO 2 nanoparticles on the carbonaceous surface. A substantial increase in the BET surface area following TiO 2 impregnation was perceived (184.61 m 2 /g in the case of 3 %TiO 2 @MP500). Similarly, the thermal stability of the developed composite was notably improved as reflected by the thermogravimetric analysis. XRD analysis corroborated the existence of carbonaceous layer with anatase phase TiO 2 . Optimization of the adsorbent-photocatalyst performance was approached using the Box-Behnken design. Five factors were premeditated, pH of the MO solution, adsorbent dose, reaction time, the concentration of TiO 2 , and [MO]. A maximum sorption capacity of 104.2 mg/g was reckoned, with a pseudo-second-order isotherm. Furthermore, the 3 %TiO 2 @MP500 achieved a decolorization efficiency of 98.87 % in ~30 min. The 3 %TiO 2 @MP500 nanocomposite was effectively revived and could be exploited for 6 cycles, bolstering a decolorization efficiency of 90.91 %.
Authors: Marwa Ezzine, Ahmed S. El-Shafie, Khaled M. Youssef, Marwa El-Azazy
Institution: Qatar University
Language: English
Subfield: Water Science and Technology
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,390
Funders: Qatar University, Qatar National Library
OpenAlex ID: W4408149793