Abstract

A system for investigation of photocatalytic degradation of volatile organic air pollutants. The system comprises a photoresistor designed to make use to the maximum extent of the active surface of the photocatalyst and light used for activation of this catalyst. The system offers the measurement of reaction temperature, intensity of light of the used lamps as well as thermostating the process due to use of a simple lamp cooling system. The use of an in-house constructed reflector in this system improves maximally the effectivity of utilizing the light for the photocatalytic tests.

Advantages and innovative aspects

1. Innovative reactor design allows for maximal utilizing the active surface of the photocatalyst.
2. Very effective method of utilizing the light energy of the lamps used.
3. Very high degree of degradation of organic air pollutants.
4. High selectivity towards complete mineralization of volatile organic compounds (to carbon dioxide and water).
5. Easy handling and innovative design allows following important data during the photocatalytic reaction (e.g., reaction temperature, exposure intensity).

Selected potential applications

Air pollution, Chemical engineering, Producing apparatus, Solar power (photovoltaic cells).

Acknowledgments

We are very grateful for the support from: a. the National Science Centre in Poland within the project DEC-2011/01/B/ST5/03888, b. Marie Curie International Reintegration Grant within the 7^th European Community Framework Programme, and from the 2012 to 2014 science financial resources, granted for the international co-financed project implementation (Project No. ⁴⁷³⁄₇.PR/2012, Ministry of Science and Higher Education of Poland).