Abstract
A high level of efficiency in the photocatalytic reactions was achieved by increasing the surface area of the photocatalyst by supporting fine TiO2 particles on porous materials. Among various supports, zeolites seem to be an attractive candidate. Ti-incorporated Y zeolite was prepared by an ion-exchange method, while Ag was immobilized on the encapsulated titanium via impregnation method. The produced samples were characterized using X-ray diffraction, ultraviolet and visible spectroscopy, photoluminescence emission spectra, scanning electron microscopy, and surface area measurement. Furthermore, the catalytic performances of Ti-Ag/NaY tests were carried out for degradation of cyanide using visible light. The results reveal a good distribution of Ag on the zeolite. Ag doping can eliminate the recombination of electron-hole pairs in the catalyst. These results demonstrate that the optimum weight% of Ag to Ti-NaY is 0.3%; this weight% facilitates high performance by the photocatalyst, degrading 99% of cyanide in a 100mg/L solution in 60min.