Numerical finite volume modeling of dye decolorization using immobilized titania nanophotocatalysis

This paper presents a numerical finite volume model for simulation of decolorization and mineralization of dyes by nanophotocatalysis using immobilized titania. Three textile dyes, Remazol Red RB (RR), Remazol Brilliant Blue BB (RBB) and Cibacron Blue TGRE (CB), were used as model compounds. UV–vis, ion chromatography (IC) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) analyses were employed to obtain the details of the photocatalytic degradation of dyes. Numerical finite volume model was used to solve the mathematical equation describing decolorization process. The results showed that the dyes were decolorized and mineralized. The model predictions were compared to those results obtained from experimental tests and close agreement was achieved.