Effect of dimensionality of nanosized TiO₂ embedded in regenerated cellulose beads as a portable catalyst for reusable decomposition system

Abstract

Free‐standing titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanowires (TNW) with great photocatalysis performances were formed by using a simple hydrothermal method. Pre‐cool rapid dissolution technique was used to dissolve cellulose, and the regenerated cellulose (RC) beads were used as a portable host for absorption and photocatalytic reaction. Comparisons were made between zero‐dimensional TiO2 nanoparticle (TNP) and one‐dimensional TNW, which both were mixed separately with dissolved cellulose and regenerated into spherical beads. As regeneration involved physical interaction, there were no functional group changes observed on RC beads, as confirmed by Fourier‐transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy analysis. TNP and TNW maintained the crystallize phase after the regeneration process, thus confirming that aqueous LiOH/urea solvent had no chemical interaction with them. RC beads shaped, external and internal structures were morphologically examined with a field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM). Due to the distinct dimensionality between TNW and TNP, interactions of physical crosslinking with dissolved cellulose are also different. This leads to different RC beads morphological structures, externally and internally. Changes in pore volume and percentage of weight gain were most prominent with the embedment of TNW. RC beads with TNP (TPB) had better photocatalytic performances than RC beads with TNW (TWB) in the 1st cycle but have poor recyclability in comparison to TWB after the 5th cycle. We concluded that the embedment of one‐dimensional TNW in RC beads promotes better photocatalytic behavior and performance as a portable catalyst.

A Short Review: Photocatalysis As An Alternative Method for POME Treatment

“…Evyan et al [26] suggested that the degradation system or structure can be developed as nanoparticle composites such as nanocellulose, polymer, ceramic, or other materials incorporated with nanoparticles. These systems or models are recyclable, reusable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly and can achieve sustainability [41,42].…”