M.A. Hernández, P. García, C. Frausto, P.R. Martínez, C.A. Pineda.
Centro de Investigaciones en Óptica, A.C,
Mexico
Keywords: Treatment of water, reverse osmosis, activate carbon filter, photocatalytic reactor, TiO2: Cu/Ethyl Cellulose, dip-coating.
Summary:
In this study, the conditioning treatment of water of a well was investigated by using a solar water purification prototype. This prototype integrates a reverse osmosis filtration system, an activated carbon filter, and a photocatalytic reactor with CPC collectors directed toward receiver tubes, through which the effluent circulates. Inside these tubes are deposits of TiO₂: Cu/Ethyl Cellulose, supported on large-surface substrates using the dip-coating technique. The structural characterization of photocatalyst techniques such as XRD and SEM were employed, revealing anatase phase as TiO2 photocatalytic material, with a crystal size of 11 nm. Additionally, proper adhesion to the substrates was observed, as well as the presence of pores with approximate sizes of 800–1100 nm. The system efficiency in water of well purification was evaluated through TOC, COD analysis, biological and physicochemical parameters. The results demonstrated an achievable in the quality water parameters of the water after all treatment, thus confirming the photocatalytic capability of the solar prototype material. In conclusion, the use of the solar water purification prototype, together with the TiO₂:Cu/Ethyl Cellulose-coated substrates, enabled the reduction of contaminants in water of well, validating its effectiveness.