Photocatalytic degradation of nitrotoluene in aqueous TiO_2 suspension

摘要

TiO_2-mediated photocatalytic degradation process was employed to treat aqueous 2-, 3-, and 4-NT (nitrotoluene) pollutants. The NT disappearance and TOC removal rates for three isomers showed no significant differences. Three hydroxylated aromatic intermediates resulting from the photocatalytic degradation of 4-NT were identified; this suggested two (initial) degradation pathways. Formation of acetic acid, formic acid, and formaldehyde was also noted.