Jingtang Zheng

Properties of a three-dimensionally ordered macro-mesoporous carbon-doped TiO2 composite catalyst

This study aimed to develop an effective, environmentally benign composite catalyst composed of carbon materials and titanium dioxide (TiO2). Carbon-doped titanium dioxide (C–TiO2) was prepared by coating TiO2 onto macro-mesoporous carbon (MMC). The structure, morphology and surface chemistry states of the C–TiO2 were characterized by XRD, TEM, XPS, UV-vis and FTIR. The photocatalytic activity of C–TiO2 was evaluated based on the decomposition of an aqueous methyl orange solution in visible light. C–TiO2 significantly improved photocatalytic activity. A possible mechanism for the improvement of the photocatalytic activity of C–TiO2 in visible light was proposed. The results of the analysis suggested that MMC played key roles as the support, absorbent, location of photo-generated electron transfer, and carbon-doping source during methyl orange photodegradation.

Nonthermal Plasma for Effluent and Waste Treatment

Recently, due to the tightening of applicable legislation on the discharge of wastes (eg, pesticides, off-odors, and coloring matters) from food-processing relevant industries, the development of effective and low-cost remediation approaches are netting increasing global attention. Given the environmental compatibility and cost-efficient performance of nonthermal plasma technology, it is a promising strategy for waste treatment. In this chapter, the crucial parameters of various plasma-generating technologies and the destruction mechanisms of many typical contaminants are summarized. To enhance energy and treatment efficiency, plasma technology incorporating homogeneous/heterogeneous catalysts is the area of growing interest, and this aspect is also discussed. In addition, this chapter is concerned with the mechanism of the synergistic reactions involved in these plasma/catalyst combined processes. Finally, a critical assessment is also provided regarding the problems faced in the adoption of plasma technologies and their performance in industrial applications.