Photocatalytic degradation performance of various types of modified TiO2 against nitrophenols in aqueous systems

Nitrophenols are used extensively in the chemical, pharmaceutical, and pesticide industries. Recently, water pollution caused by nitrophenols has gained worldwide attention. Significant efforts have been made over the past years to develop effective treatment options for the removal of nitrophenols in aqueous phase. Photocatalysis using titanium dioxide (TiO2) is regarded as one of the most effective options to degrade nitrophenols in contaminated water. This review deals with the performance of TiO2 photocatalysis for the degradation of nitrophenols and related mechanisms. The performance of TiO2 photocatalysts is assessed by comparing basic performance metrics such as quantum yields and reaction rates before and after modification (e.g., pristine vs. modified forms). Results suggest that TiO2-based photocatalysis is a promising treatment option for degrading nitrophenol.