Photocatalytic decomposition of cyanide in pure water by biphasic titanium dioxide nanoparticles

AbstractCyanide found in industrial wastes is among the critical environmental issues. The purpose of this research was to investigate the effects of various operating parameters, such as cyanide initial concentration, hydrogen peroxide dosage, amount of catalyst, UV light intensity and acidity on the photocatalytic degradation of cyanide using TiO2 nanoparticles. The characterization of synthesized nanoparticles was also conducted using X-ray diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy techniques. Biphasic form of TiO2 nanoparticles indicated the maximum removal yield and complete degradation of cyanide. Increase in initial concentration of cyanide causes decrease in removal yield. The complete removal of cyanide was achieved with dose of 3 mg L−1 in 45 min, while lasting for 90 min without H2O2 degradation process. In addition, at pH 11 and catalyst content of 1 g L−1, the maximum cyanide removal was observed. The efficiency of cyanide removal can be affected by various operating parameters. Incre...