Photocatalytic removal of o-chlorophenol by Using a Mixture of Modified Fly Ash and TiO2 Nanoparticles

Abstract Background: Photocatalytic process is used as a suitable method for o-chlorophenol removal. In this study, the efficiency of a mixture of modified fly ash and TiO2 nanoparticles in photocatalytic removal of o-chlorophenol was evaluated. Methods: After acid washing of fly ash, the absorbent was oxidized with potassium permanganate. Then, the substrate mixture of modified fly ash and TiO2 nanoparticles was used for photocatalytic decomposition of o-chlorophenol. Results: The percentage of carbon increased from 77.94% to 86.52% after acid washing of fly ash and absorption efficiency increased from 58.8% up to 83.3%. During the oxidation of acid washed fly ash, absorption efficiency reached to 93.27%. Photocatalytic removal efficiency of o-chlorophenol by mixture of modified fly ash and TiO2 increased to 98.9%. Photocatalytic removal efficiency of o-chlorophenol by TiO2/UV and without use of fly ash was 78.7%. Conclusion: Industrial application of this method recommended because of the simple modification, high efficiency removal and prevention of environment pollution.