Novel carbon-based photocatalysts for degradation of micropollutants

• Carbon foam produced from bulrush rhizomes using unique two-step method. • Acid-activated carbon foam doped with TiO 2 was found to be the most effective photocatalyst. • Acid activation improves oxygen-containing surface groups, dispersion of TiO 2 and porosity. • Unique macro, meso and microporous structure of bulrush carbon foam. In this study, novel TiO 2 doped photocatalysts based on carbon foam derived from Typha capensis , a sustainable and naturally abundant biomass source, were prepared and evaluated for removal of an organic dye. The carbon foam was produced through a unique two-step process involving baking and carbonization, followed by chemical activation using either NaOH or HCl to improve its surface area, porosity, and surface chemistry. TiO 2 was then immobilised onto the activated carbon foam using a sol-gel method to enhance photocatalytic activity. The materials were extensively characterised, with BET surface area analysis showing a significant increase after chemical activation. The base-activated foam demonstrated the highest surface area. Microscopic analysis revealed a porous foam structure and confirmed the even distribution of TiO 2 particles on the carbon surface. X-ray diffraction analysis verified the presence of the anatase phase of TiO 2 , which is known for its superior photocatalytic activity. Photocatalytic tests showed that the acid-activated carbon foam doped with TiO 2 exhibited the best performance, achieving a Rhodamine B degradation efficiency of approximately 19% under UV light. The superior activity is believed to stem from the improved surface chemistry introduced by acid activation, which aids TiO 2 dispersion and interaction with the pollutant molecules. This study highlights the potential of the novel carbon foam as a sustainable, low-cost, and potentially effective photocatalyst support for water treatment.