Photoelectrochemical oxidation of organic substances over nanocrystalline titania: Optimization of the photoelectrochemical cell

The photocatalyzed oxidation of various organic substances has been studied in a two compartment, chemically biased photoelectrochemical cell. The organic substances studied were either derivatives of biomass and, generally, of natural products or they were potential water pollutants, like surfactants. The purpose of the study was the assessment of the feasibility of employing solar radiation to produce electricity with simultaneous water cleaning or consumption of surplus biomass derivatives. The study includes optimization of the photoelectrochemical cell by using different types of cathode electrodes and a standard nanocrystalline titania anode.