An Environmental Applications of Titanium Dioxide
Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a notable nano material for environmental applications due to its photolytic
properties, which are highly effective in purifying air and water by degrading harmful pollutants into
harmless components under sunlight or UV light. In air purification, TiO 2 can neutralize harmful
organic compounds, bacteria, and viruses, improving both indoor and outdoor air quality. Similarly, in
water treatment processes, it can break down toxic chemicals, microorganisms, and heavy metals,
offering an energy-efficient solution especially in sun-rich areas and promoting the reuse of
wastewater. The use of TiO 2 in environmental sustainability efforts not only enhances energy
efficiency and reduces carbon footprint but also plays a vital role in developing eco-friendly
technologies for a cleaner and more sustainable future.
According to an article (Mamaghani et. al), they investigated that adjusting the properties of
photocatalyst to increase the photoactivity and use of activated carbon fiber to enhance the adsorption
of VOCs. The first objective was achieved by applying a calcination stage to the hydrothermally-
prepared titania to increase its crystallinity without significant surface area and porosity loss. The
characterization results revealed that by raising the calcination temperature, crystallinity, crystal size,
and charge separation efficiency steadily improved while the surface area, porosity, and surface OH
density diminished. Combination of titanium dioxide and activated carbon filter exhibited better
efficiency compared to TiO2 coated on nickel foam filter as well as superior durability with respect to
uncoated activated carbon fiber
Condensing the versatility and efficacy of titanium dioxide into environmental applications
underscores its pivotal role in addressing pollution. By harnessing the power of sunlight or UV light,
TiO2 catalyzes a process that converts pollutants into benign substances, thus significantly improving
air and water quality. This nano material's ability to drive purification processes without additional
energy input highlights its potential for sustainable environmental management, marking a forward
step in the journey towards greener technologies and a more sustainable society.
According to an article (Gocer et. al), they achieved an efficiency of 80% in COD removal using
titanium dioxide. The study shows that nanoparticles matter can be effectively used for domestic
wastewater treatment. TiO2 could be used as pretreatment for the treatment of domestic wastewater.
REFERENCES
Mamaghani, A.H., Haghighat, F., Lee, C., Effect of titanium dioxide properties and support material
on photocatalytic oxidation of indoor air pollutants, Building and Environment, vol 189, 107518,
2021
Göçer, S., Kozak, M., Ayranpınar, İ., Duyar, A., Köroğlu, E. O., Cırk, K., Applıcatıon of Tıtanıum
Dıoxıde(TiO2) Nanopartıcle Materıals on Domestıc Wastewater: Removal of Pollutants, 25(4), 2022
