Dye decolorization by advanced oxidation process using locally available magnetite and Limenite

Abstract

Decolorization of Methylene Blue (MB) has been investigated using locally available magnetite and ilmenite under UV and solar light. Effects of catalyst dosage, dye concentration, concentration of H2O2, pH, and light intensity were observed. Impact of inorganic salts and temperature on decolorization in presence of magnetite was also studied. Optimum value of catalyst and H2O2 were found in case of Magnetite above which decolorization decreases. Acidic condition (pH 3) was found to be preferable. All the inorganic anions except nitrate ions had negative impact on the decolorization. On the other hand higher catalyst dosage resulted in higher decolorization efficiency using Ilmenite. Optimum value was observed in case of H2O2. Lower acidic environment was found to be preferable. The research also proved that high light intensity could improve the photocatalytic efficiency. 89% and 86% of .05 mM MB dye was removed for Magnetite and Ilmenite respectively in 30 minute reaction time.