The applicaion [sic] application of photocatalytic mortar for BTEX and heavy metal removal from industrial wastewater

Abstract

Limited research assessed the usage of photocatalytic mortar for water purification with no recorded data on its applicability for benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes (BTEX) degradation. The abundance of these organic pollutants and heavy metals in industrial wastewaters has imposed a threat on the environment and human health demanding removal, along with the voluminous use of concrete that can perform as a support for treatment mechanisms. The addition of 1%, 3%, and 5% titanium oxide (TiO2) photocatalyst into grey and white cements with reference samples was assessed for mechanical mortar properties and pollutant removal efficiency at three different concentrations. Grey cement with 1% catalyst showed the best properties which was attributed to the filler effect of TiO2, whereas white cement revealed reduced properties. The cementitious matrix had an impact on photocatalysis and on the adsorption capacity ascribed mainly to its chemical composition. Specific heavy metals admitted 100% adsorption at 120 min of UV light exposure with the finest performance with 1% catalyst into grey cement. BTEX exhibited high removal rates after 30 min for the same sample. The results are aligned with the purpose of the research for high removal of pollutants verifying its potential competency in water treatment, but emerging outcomes stroke that call for deeper testing and analysis.