Photocatalytic degradation of phenol on TiO2 coated inorganic membranes

The photocatalytic degradation of phenol was studied on TiO2 coated metal ( flat) and ceramic (tubular) membranes. The dependence of the observed rate constant k(obs) on [phenol], flow rate, pH, irradiation intensity, added [H 2O2] and temperature was investigated with the purpose of elucidating the m echanism of the process. The role of other physico-chemical factors such as the membrane support/surface and deliberately introduced oxygen/nitrogen w as also studied. The kinetic data are consistent with a mechanism comprisin g photoactivation and two degradation pathways. The enhancement of degradat ion by employing a catalyst coated membrane surface is clearly demonstrated by virtue of the acquired rate constants and activation parameters.