The recovery of nanophotocatalyst TiO2/Fe2O3 in removal process of toxic Pb2+ ion from wastewater

The properties of titanium dioxide nanoparticles are highly dependent on particle size، elements، compounds doped nanoparticles، which affected by the synthesis method. Considering the excitation of TiO2 nano-photocatalyst is performed in vitro by expensive Ultra Violet (UV)، in this study we were able to either perform the removal of toxic lead ions of wastewater in the visible region or nanoparticle recovery via synthesizing TiO2 sensitized by iron oxide using sonochemical method It leads to easy use of these nanoparticles in military remote areas to provide drinking water، in order to maintain the health of military personnel. The amount of Pb2+ elimination was evaluated in a photoreactor with applying alternations in radiation time. The retrieval of TiO2 / Fe2O3 nano-photocatalyst was also performed at 100±10°C. The efficiency of Pb2+elimination developed from 27 to 92% by increasing the radiation time from 5 to 60 minutes. The findings of the recovery during the study revealed that in addition to efficient retrieval of TiO2/Fe2O3 nano-photocatalyst، the velocities of lead removal by recycled catalyst was close to the recovery phase of initial catalyst. We can use the TiO2/Fe2O3 nano-photocatalyst sensitized by iron oxide under visible light irradiation as an effective way for eliminating Pb2+from aqueous solutions. Moreover، the physical properties of the TiO2/Fe2O3،anatase، can justify easy separation from water، reusing in removal process، and economical-practical usage.