Photocatalytic Degradation of Phenol over MWCNTs-TiO₂ Composite Catalysts with Different Diameters

Titania-based composite catalysts were prepared through a sol-gel route employing multiwalled carbon nanotubes with different diameters. The materials were characterized using thermogravimetric analysis, nitrogen adsorption-desorption isotherm, powder X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and diffuse reflectance UV-Vis absorption spectra. The application of the catalysts to photocatalytic degradation of phenol was tested under UV-Vis irradiation. A synergetic effect on phenol removal was observed in case of composite catalysts, which was evaluated in terms of apparent rate constant, total organic carbon removal and photonic efficiency.