Combustion of Toluene over Titanium(IV) Oxide Catalyst

Combustion catalysts free from precious metals, such as platinum, for removal of volatile organic compounds were investigated. Common metal oxides (titanium(IV) oxide (TiO2), alumina and silica) were selected as candidates for a catalyst for combustion of toluene at low concentrations. Complete conversion of toluene was not achieved even at 500°C without catalysts, although the ignition point of toluene is 480°C. TiO2 exhibited the highest activity for combustion of toluene among representative metal oxides. Toluene was almost quantitatively converted to carbon dioxide (>99% yield) over TiO2 under the condition of appropriate contact time at 500°C.