Abstract
Phthalates, widely used as plasticizers, pose significant environmental and health risks due to their persistence and bioaccumulation in ecosystems. This study investigates the photocatalytic degradation of phthalates using a green-synthesized nanocomposite, combining Zinc Oxide (ZnO) with environmentally benign materials such as plant extracts. The nanocomposite was characterized through techniques including X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to assess its structural and functional properties. Photocatalytic experiments were conducted under UV and visible light to evaluate the degradation efficiency of various phthalate compounds. Results demonstrated a marked enhancement in degradation rates with the green-synthesized nanocomposite . Key parameters such as catalyst concentration, light intensity, and initial phthalate concentration were optimized to maximize photocatalytic activity. The findings indicate that the green-synthesized nanocomposite effectively removes phthalates from aqueous solutions, providing a sustainable approach to mitigating the environmental impact of these pollutants. This research underscores the potential of utilizing green chemistry principles in the development of efficient photocatalytic materials, contributing to both environmental remediation and the advancement of sustainable technologies.
Presenters
Ayodele OlomiejaLecturing/Lecturer II, Chemistry, Ogun State Institute of Technology, Igbesa, Ogun, Nigeria Hakeem Olanrewaju Bello
Senior Lecturer, Science Laboratory Technology, Ogun State Institute of Technology, Ogun, Nigeria Olubukola Olayemi Olomieja
Assistant Director of Nursing Services, Lagos State Health Service Commission, Orile-Agege General Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Public Health Policies and Practices
KEYWORDS
PHTHALATE CONCENTRATION, PHOTOCATALYTIC ACTIVITY, GREEN-SYNTHESIZED NANOCOMPOSITE, SUSTAINABLE APPROACH, HEALTH RISKS
