Degradation of diethyl phthalate (DEP) in aqueous solution using TiO₂/UV process

Abstract

A B S T R AC TDiethyl phthalate (DEP) has been classifi ed as an endocrine disruptor pollutant. The degradation of DEP C 12 H 14 O 4 , in aqueous solution by TiO 2 -UV process was optimized using high pressure mercury lamp. Effects of TiO 2 dosage and type, and pH values on the degradation of DEP by TiO 2 /UV process were investigated. The optimal TiO 2 dosage and pH value for the DEP degradation were 1 g l −1 and 7.0, respectively using TiO 2 P25. The degradation rate of DEP by TiO 2 /UV process under optimal conditions reach 78.6% and could be fi tted fi rst-order kinetics.