TiO2 Encapsulated into Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework (TiO2@ZIF-8) as an Efficient Nanophotocatalyst for Degradation of Paraquat Herbicide

In this research, preparation, characterization, and evaluation of TiO2 encapsulated into zeolitic imidazolate framework (TiO2@ZIF-8) nanophotocatalyst was investigated as an efficient photo-degradation of paraquat (PQ) herbicide from aqueous samples. This study was performed using a ZIF-8-based nanophotocatalyst and a reactor consisting of an ultraviolet (UV) source and a reaction chamber. The effects of various parameters including contaminant concentration, amount of nanophotocatalyst, and pH reaction time were investigated on the removal efficiency of contaminant by the TiO2@ZIF-8 nanophotocatalyst. The results showed by increasing the amount of the TiO2@ZIF-8 nanophotocatalyst and pH, the removal of paraquat showed an increase. The optimal condition was found as nanophotocatalyst concentration (0.05 g.L-1), pH (7) at room temperature for 15 min for removal of 99.8% paraquat. According to the results, TiO2@ZIF-8 emerged as an efficient, robust, and recyclable nanophotocatalyst, which is a potential and environmentally friendly process for the removal of toxic chemical herbicide as hazardous organic contaminants from aqueous samples. The facile fabrication approach and the enhanced photocatalytic activity of TiO2@ZIF-8 were highlighted and notably showed good reusability in 8 consecutive cycles.