“Titanium Oxide-Clay” as Adsorbent and Photocatalysts for Wastewater Treatment

Abstract

A novel composite based on Titanium oxide and clays hydrothermally was synthesized to be used as substrate in advanced treatment of wastewaters. The treatment consists of one single step process combining photocatalysis and adsorption. The composite's crystalline structure is investigated by X-ray diffraction and FTIR, while atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) are used to analyze the surface morphology. The adsorption capacity and photocatalytic properties of the material are tested on pollutants matrix containing dye (Methylene Blue) and heavy metal (cadmium cation). The results under optimized conditions indicate a good removal efficiency using this novel composite material.