Heterogeneous photocatalytic degradation of ethylene glycol and propylene glycol

Abstract

The photocatalytic decomposition of ethylene glycol and propylene glycol was investigated by using UV-illuminated TiO_2 and metal-loaded TiO_2 catalysts. The effects of pH, initial concentration, and wavelength of light on the decomposition rate of the glycols were explored. Platinum-and palladium-loaded TiO_2 catalysts enhanced the rates of photodecomposition compared to unloaded TiO_2. The glycols were oxidized primarily to carbon dioxide and water. Formaldehyde was found to be an important reaction intermediate. A detailed chemical reaction mechanism for the destruction of ethylene glycol and propylene glycol in water via free radical pathway and trapped hole reactions at the particle surface is proposed.

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