Titanium oxide supported on montmorillonite clays for environmental applications

Abstract

Montmorillonite clays (natural and commercial (KSF and K-10)) were modified by impregnation with TiO2 from TiCl4 solution. The natural and KSF clays were also pillared with Al polyhydroxication and after that, these were impregnated with TiO2. Photocatalysts were characterized by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy X-ray (EDX) and Infrared Spectroscopy (IR) in order to understand their catalytic potential properties. Photocatalysts were used in a decomposition reaction of methylene blue (MB) and all catalysts demonstrated photocatalytic activity for degradation of dye (20 to 45%); however, K-10 sample showed the best results (more than 98% of elimination) due to its high superficial area and TiO2 dispersion. The results obtained using photocatalysts were compared with electrochemical oxidation process using Ti/Pt anode, showing that the photocatalysis reaction is more efficient. At present, our results demonstrate the potential of these catalysts for environment applications.