The Selective Photocatalytic Oxidation of m-Phenoxytoluene on Titanium Dioxide Particles Supported in Nafion Membranes

Abstract

The selective photocatalytic oxidation of m-phenoxytoluene to m-phenoxybenzaldehyde on titanium dioxide (TiO₂) particles incorporated in Nafion membranes has been investigated. No more than 0.1% of by-products was detected after 24 h irradiation, and the catalytic nature of the reaction is demonstrated with a turnover in excess of 100. In addition, a yield of at least 28% is achieved. Both the emission characteristics and catalytic activity of TiO₂ are regenerated by washing the membrane in butanol.