CATALYTIC WET OXIDATION OF PHENOL OVER A PT TIO2 CATALYST/

Wet oxidation of phenol by air or oxygen over a Pt/TiO2 catalyst is st udied in a batch reactor in the temperature range 150-200 degrees C, p ressure range 34-82 atm, and a catalyst loading range of 0-4 g catalys t L-1. The catalyst was powdered 4.45% Pt/TiO2 with a maximum particle size of 105 mu m. Results show complete oxidation of phenol and almos t complete total organic carbon (TOC) removal. Small amounts of stable organic acids are formed in side reactions of the phenol degradation pathway and are not readily degraded. Experimental results show that t he reaction rate decreases by increased oxygen concentration. Theoreti cal rate expressions are derived, based on postulated oxidation and TO C reduction mechanisms. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.