Activity of phthalocyanine-sensitized TiO2-anatase in photooxidation of sulfite ions

Abstract Hybrid catalysts based on the TiO2 matrix impregnated with Nd, Eu and Yb diphthalocyanines proved effective in oxidation of sulfite ions under irradiation with light from the UV-visible range. Micro- and nano-crystalline anatase powders were used in preparation of the photocatalysts, which were applied in the form of a suspension in the water phase. The reaction yield was found to depend on the phthalocyanine sensitizer used and the conditions of TiO2 impregnation. The best results were obtained when micro-anatase impregnated with Yb-diphthalocyanine was used.