Synthesis of TiO2-Activated Carbon from Coffee Dregs by Hydrothermal Method for Photodegradation of Diazinon

Abstract

The photocatalytic activity of TiO2 can be enhanced by binding it to materials with high adsorption capacity. The synthesis began with the mixture of 5 mL TTIP, 30 mL ethanol, and H2O 30 mL stirred for 1 hour. Activated carbon made from coffee grounds in varying amounts (5 g, 10 g, and 15 g) was then added to the TTIP solution, and the mixture was stirred for 2 hours. The mixture was then placed in an autoclave, heated at 180°C for 12 hours, dried, and then calcined at 500°C for 3 hours. SEM morphological analysis showed that TiO2 particles were attached to the surface of the activated carbon, which was further confirmed by EDX data showing the presence of Ti and O elements in the synthesized material. Furthermore, crystallinity and gap analyses demonstrated that the material was exclusively in the anatase phase. The largest surface area, 286.10 m²/g, was observed on titanium dioxide-activated carbon/10 (TiO2-AC/10), exhibiting a mesoporous structure and microporous features. Photocatalytic tests for diazinon degradation demonstrated that TiO2-AC/10 exhibited the most significant photocatalytic activity of 65.18%. The composite material's degradation capability diminished by 9-13% from the initial to the third cycle. The residual titanium elements within the composite material maintained stability, suggesting the integrity and durability of TiO2 particles affixed to the surface of activated carbon.