Heterogeneous photocatalytic reduction of Fe(VI) in UV-irradiated titania suspensions: Effect of ammonia and formic acid
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Ammonia is a pollutant that creates eutrophication of rivers and lakes and its removal is, thus, becoming an important issue. Formic acid is a by-product of many industrial processes and its removal from the wastewater is of great interest. The removal of ammonia and formic acid was sought by examination of the heterogeneous photocatalytic oxidation of ammonia and formic acid in UV-irradiated TiO2 suspensions with and without Fe(VI) (FeVIO22-) at pH 9.0. The kinetics of the reactions were determined by monitoring both the reduction of Fe(VI) and the oxidation of ammonia/formic acid. The rates of oxidation of ammonia and formic acid in TiO2/UV suspensions were enhanced in presence of Fe(VI). Results suggest the photocatalytic production of a highly reactive species, Fe(V), a powerful oxidant, to oxidize ammonia and formic acid. A combination of Fe(VI) and TiO2 photocatalyst has the potential to enhance the oxidation of pollutants in the aquatic environment.
