Large-scale study for the photocatalytic degradation of paracetamol using Fe2O3/TiO2 nanocomposite catalyst and CPC reactor under natural sunlight radiations

Heterogeneous photocatalysis is a promising advanced oxidation process for the degradation of emerging contaminants. In this regard, Hematite (α-Fe2O3) doped TiO2 nanocomposite catalyst was synthesized via sol-gel method. The catalyst was prepared in large quantities (225 g) comparatively with other studies and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX), and nitrogen gas physisorption studies. The bandgap of the synthesized catalyst was determined using UV-vis diffused reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), and the point of zero charge (PZC) was identified by measuring the zeta potential (ζ-potential) of the nanoparticles. A large-scale study was conducted using a modified Compound Parabolic Collector Reactor (CPCR) for the degradation of paracetamol under natural sunlight irradiations. The operating parameters including the initial concentration of paracetamol, initial pH of the solution, and catalyst loading were optimized using face-centered central composite design (FCCD) based on response surface method (RSM) to obtain the maximum degradation efficiency of paracetamol. •The simplified and direct sol-gel method described helps in the synthesis of a novel nanocomposite catalyst (Fe2O3/TiO2) in large quantities while maintaining good characteristics compared to other methods.•The described treatment method using the modified CPCR will allow the degradation of paracetamol in a more sustainable and green manner.•Optimizing the operating parameters that have a significant influence on the degradation of paracetamol will contribute towards higher degradation rates.