Titanium oxide supported on montmorillonite clays for environmental applications

Montmorillonite clays (natural and commercial (KSF and K-10)) were modified by impregnation with TiO₂ from TiCl₄ solution. The natural and KSF clays were also pillared with Al polyhydroxication and after that, these were impregnated with TiO₂. Photo catalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (Sem), energy dispersive spectroscopy X-ray (EDX) and infrared spectroscopy (IR) in order to understand their catalytic potential properties. Photo catalysts were used in a decomposition reaction of methylene blue (Mb) and all catalysts demonstrated photo catalytic activity for degradation of dye (20 to 45%); however, K-10 sample showed the best results (more than 98% of elimination) due to its high superficial area and TiO₂ dispersion. The results obtained using photo catalysts were compared with electrochemical oxidation process using Ti/Pt anode, showing that the photo catalysis reaction is more efficient. At present, our results demonstrate the potential of these catalysts for environment applications. (Author)