Synthesis of TiO2-Based Photocatalyst from Indonesia Ilmenite Ore for Photodegradation of Eriochrome Black-T Dye

Using a combination method of roasting process with soda ash (Na2CO3) and hydrochloric acid leaching, a TiO2-based photocatalyst was successfully synthesized from Indonesia ilmenite ore. The study investigated the effect of Na2CO3 ratios, roasting times, and HCl concentration on the physical and photocatalytic properties of the photocatalyst. The results revealed that HCl concentration played a critical role in altering the characteristics of the prepared photocatalyst. TiO2 composition increased by 61% compared to ilmenite ore when 20% HCl was used, whereas Fe2O3 composition decreased by 88%. The physical properties and photocatalytic activity of the prepared TiO2 were similar to those of low-grade commercial TiO2. When conducted to 3 h of low-power (8 W) UV light irradiation, the photocatalyst decomposed Eriochrome Black-T, an organic dye model pollutant, by up to 83%. This study's findings provide crucial implications for further research on recovering TiO2-based photocatalyst from ilmenite ore using a simple method.