Activity of phthalocyanine-sensitized TiO₂-anatase in photooxidation of sulfite ions

Abstract

Hybrid catalysts based on the TiO 2 matrix impregnated with Nd, Eu and Yb diphthalocyanines proved effective in oxidation of sulfi te ions under irradiation with light from the UV-visible range. Micro-and nano-crystalline anatase powders were used in preparation of the photocatalysts, which were applied in the form of a suspension in the water phase. The reaction yield was found to depend on the phthalocyanine sensitizer used and the conditions of TiO 2 impregnation. The best results were obtained when micro-anatase impregnated with Yb-diphthalocyanine was used.