Preparation of TiO2/ZnO composite catalysts and their photocatalytic activity for degradation of pentachlorophenol

Purpose This paper aims to report a novel preparation method of titanium dioxide (TiO2)/zinc oxide (ZnO) composites with different mole ratios of TiO2:ZnO and their photocatalytic activity. Design/methodology/approach TiO2/ZnO composites are prepared by a facile route. X-ray diffraction (XRD), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and ultra-violet–visible diffuse reflectance spectra (UV-vis DRS) are used to characterize the products. Photocatalytic activity of the samples is evaluated by degradation of persistent organic pollutant pentachlorophenol under ultra-violet (UV) irradiation. Findings It is found that all the as-prepared TiO2/ZnO composites not only have good catalytic activity under UV light irradiation, but also have excellent circulation stability. The optimal mole ratio of TiO2:ZnO is 0.75:1. Originality/value This report presents a simple and rapid method for the preparation of TiO2/ZnO composites with excellent photocatalytic activity. Experimental results could provide useful reference for the treatment of chlorophenols in the future.