Photocatalytic degradation of nitrophenols in aqueous titanium dioxide dispersion

The results are reported of an investigation into the photodegradation of nitrophenol isomers carried out in aqueous titania (anatase) dispersions under various experimental conditions. We investigated the influence of various parameters on the photodegradation rate, such as the concentrations of the catalyst, dissolved oxygen and organic compound, and the presence of various anions in the dispersion. A plausible explanation is proposed for the influence of these parameters, both mechanistic and kinetic factors being accounted for. Gas chromatography and mass spectrometry were used as analytical methods in order to determine intermediate products. Spectroscopic methods (UV-vis and IR) were used to obtain information on the fate of adsorbed and intermediate species formed during the reaction.