Novel Ecofriendly Method for Sterilization and Decolorization Using Bioplastic -TiO2 Composite Film
Contact:
Dr. Sudesh Kumar
Universiti Sains Malaysia
(Contact details available to registered journalists - click on link below)
Photocatalysis has been demonstrated to be an inexpensive and effective method for
treating a wide range of pollutants in both water and air. Approved by the food testing laboratory of the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), TiO2 is considered a safe substance and harmless to human. It is commonly used in paint, printing ink, plastics, paper, synthetic fibers, rubber, condensers, electronic components along with food and cosmetics. The use of photocatalysis in water purification provides new tools for preserving the environment. However the use of TiO2 suspensions in photocatalysis requires subsequent separation and recycling of the catalyst. In the case of ultrafine TiO2 catalysis this is a time consuming and expensive step in the development of recovery technology.
However, we have developed a novel way to overcome the problems. That is, we coated the TiO2 photocatalyst (Degussa's P25 formulation) on polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) film. PHA is a bio based thermoplastic synthesized by various microorganisms.
Interesting features of TiO2 coated bioplastic:
(a) Antimicrobial (to maintain sterile condition)
(b) Biodegradable (to create green environment)
(c) Decolorization [to treat industrial waste (dye)]
(d) Cost-effective means of recycling the TiO2 photocatalyst.
(d) Eco-friendly (biodegradable, sun-light as Activator) and user-friendly.
Researchers:
Dr. Sudesh Kumar
Yew Saw Peng
Yong Kim Heok
Pamela Toh Shi Ying
