Compact device for in situ ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometric measurement of photocatalytic kinetics

Abstract

In this work, we have designed a compact device that can be easily integrated with Ultraviolet–Visible spectrophotometers, utilizing Light Emitting Diode technology for in situ spectrophotometric measurements of photocatalytic reactions. Using our device, we present the test results for the breakdown of amaranth dye with Degussa P25 powder and compare them with those obtained from a conventional arc discharge reactor. The results show that the reaction constants obtained using our device are practically equivalent to those acquired with a conventional reactor. However, our device significantly simplifies the experimental task by requiring less test solution volume and fewer user interventions while enabling in situ monitoring of the reaction kinetics. Overall, the proposed approach offers a convenient and efficient means of studying photocatalytic materials for dye degradation.