Photocatalytic decomposition of N2O on Ag-TiO2

Abstract

Catalysts with various Ag loading (0.7–5.2 wt%) in the powder form were prepared by the sol–gel process controlled in the reverse micellar environment. X-ray diffraction (XRD), nitrogen adsorption measurement, UV–vis and elemental analysis were employed for characterization of catalysts. Effect of various silver loadings on photocatalytic activity of TiO2 catalysts in N2O photocatalytic decomposition was studied. Photocatalytic decomposition of N2O was performed in annular batch reactor illuminated with 8 W Hg lamp (254 nm wavelength). Reaction kinetic corresponds to first-order reaction rate which is in agreement with plausible reaction mechanisms. The highest N2O conversion of 77% after 24 h was reach over TiO2 modified by 3.4 wt% Ag. The Ag metal clusters could provoke a decrease in the electron–hole recombination rate.