Work

Utilization of rice husk ash for sustainable synthesis of titania nanoparticles on ordered SBA-15 mesopores with high photoactivity and stability

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Rice husks (RHs) are an agricultural waste. Currently, the waste is not effectively utilized, resulting in environmental pollution. This study is focused on the SBA-15-supported TiO 2 catalyst fabricated from RH ash (RHA) as a novel material for near-ultraviolet-light degradation of Congo red (CR). Experimental results show that the formation of new Si–O–Ti bonds was beneficial to photocatalytic reaction. The textural parameters of catalysts were in the ranges of 156–327 m 2 /g, 0.204–0.462 cm 3 /g, and 7.51–9.58 nm. The optimal catalytic conditions were a TiO 2 content of 30 wt%, calcination temperature of 900 °C, solution pH of 1, composite dosage of 50 mg, and initial CR concentration of 40 ppm. Nearly complete degradation was achieved within 120 min. The kinetics analysis, degradation mechanism, and stability of the recycled catalyst were also explored in depth. Recycling RHA to prepare mesoporous photocatalysts can simultaneously treat biowaste and purify wastewater and has high economic value.

Source: Ain Shams Engineering Journal

DOI: 10.1016/j.asej.2026.104182

Authors: Tzong-Horng Liou, Yen-Tung Lin, Chi-En Wu

Institutions: Ming Chi University of Technology, Chang Gung University

Language: English

Topic: TiO2 Photocatalysis and Solar Cells

Subfield: Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Clean water and sanitation

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,200