Research progress of TiO2 photocatalytic reduction of oxyanion pollutants in water: a mini review

Abstract

Oxyanions-nitrate, bromate, and perchlorate in water bodies can do harms of different levels to human health. Photocatalytic reduction is one of the most promising and effective means to convert them into harmless ions. In this article, we discuss the photocatalytic mechanisms of TiO2 catalyst in nitrogen removal process. The factors determining the catalytic activity and the selectivity of nitrogen are elaborated. An overview of the pathway of photocatalysis toward bromate and perchlorate reduction is presented, and the reduction performance of different photocatalysts is evaluated. It is of vital importance to the development of low-cost photocatalytic materials and the use of their activities.