Photocatalytic performance analysis of Degussa P25 under various laboratory conditions

Photoactive semiconductor nanomaterials are the most emerging area of research for both solar photovoltaic and photocatalytic applications. Among the different photoactive materials Degussa P25 is one of the best and commercialized semiconductor material for photocatalytic applications. Degussa P25 is a mixed phase (Anatase and Rutile) heterojunction photocatalyst with superior photocatalytic performance under UV irradiation. Material engineering along with optimization of catalyst loading, radiation intensity and reaction temperature plays a vital role for improving the photocatalytic performance of any semiconductor photoactive material. In the current study the effect of catalyst loading, radiation intensity and temperature on photocatalytic performance of Degussa P25 under UV irradiation has been systematically investigated. The results reveal that high catalyst loading can reduce the photocatalytic performance of Degussa P25 rather than increasing. The increase in the radiation intensity can improve the photocatalytic performance of Degussa P25. Additionally, the increase in the reaction temperature showed an improved photocatalytic performance under UV irradiation. However more detailed analysis is needed for better understanding. This study reveals the necessity of optimization of the catalyst loading, reaction temperature and radiation intensity for efficient photocatalytic performance of Degussa P25. (paper)