Degradation of linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS) using TiO2-chitosan composite as a photocatalyst

Abstract

Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate (LAS) is an anionic surfactant that is widely used as an active ingredient in synthetic detergent formulation. Being a component in domestic waste, LAS can potentially be harmful to the environment. In this research, the degradation of LAS using TiO2-chitosan composite as a photocatalyst was investigated. The optimum dose of TiO2-chitosan to be used was determined, and the effect of pH towards the degradation effectiveness was also studied. The results showed that a dose of 1 g/100 mL composite at pH 6 gave an optimum result for the LAS degradation. In this optimum condition, the decrease in LAS concentration was up to 95.20% from its initial concentration.