Jyothi M.S., Padaki M., Balakrishna R.G.
Center for Nano & Material Sciences, Jain University, IN
Keywords: PSf/TiO2 Composite membrane for Reduction of Chromium
In the context of reduction of toxic Cr (VI) in tannery effluents, an organic-inorganic hybrid materials were envisaged as new membrane materials of better properties and polysulfone membrane has been modified to form an PSf/TiO2 composite membrane to serve both for photocatalytic reduction and for filtration applications. The membranes were prepared by phase inversion process and characterized for microstructure and morphology by XRD, TEM and ATR-IR analysis. Different concentrated composite membranes were used for photocatalytic reduction of toxic Cr (VI) to non-toxic Cr (III). The synthesized anatase phase of TiO2 with a comparatively lower band gap energy responds well to solar light to produce electron hole pair, which when properly channeled by use of acids, allows proton exchange leading to •OH scavenge, electron trapping and formation of Hoads facilitating reduction of Cr (VI). 100 % reduction of 10 ppm chromium was observed within 2.5 h in presence of perchloric acid. An optimal concentration required to enhance the reduction capacity of the composite membrane to a maximum extent was investigated. From an economic point of view, the possibility of recycling and reusing the spent membrane was also investigated.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 3, Nanotechnology 2013: Bio Sensors, Instruments, Medical, Environment and Energy (Volume 3)
Published: May 12, 2013
Pages: 661 - 664
Industry sector: Energy & Sustainability
Topic: Water Technologies
ISBN: 978-1-4822-0586-2