The effect of the composition of tri-elemental doping (K, Al, S) on the photocatalytic performance of synthesized TiO2 nanoparticles in oxidizing 2-chlorophenol over visible light illumination Original Research Article

This study investigated the effect of tri-elemental doping specifically potasium (K), aluminum (Al) and sulfur (S) on the performance of the synthesized titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles under visible light illumination. The synthesized photocatalyst was prepared by sol–gel method using potash alum or potassium aluminun sulfate [KAl(SO4)2] as dopant. The process involves hydrolysis and condensation reactions of titanium alkoxides forming oxo-polymers. The process involved oxidation of 2-chlorophenol (2-CP) in aqueous conditions. The specific surface area, morphology, structure and surface charge of the synthesized photocatalyst were comparable to those of commercial Degussa P-25. Results show that the specific surface area of the catalysts decreased after calcination process. This effect corresponds with the XRD results, surface charge, EDS and photo-oxidation of the 2-CP using the TiO2/KAl(SO4)2 catalyst, wherein oxidation of 2-CP can be increased up to 96% in 4 h irradiation. However, complete mineralization of 2-CP needs longer irradiation time.