Synthesis of TiO2–CTAB–SiC composite possessing the microwave absorption capacity and its photocatalytic performance in the microwave field

The synthesis of high activity TiO 2 –CTAB–SiC composite possessing the microwave absorption capacity has been reported. Herein, the commercial Silicon carbide (SiC) particles were used as the microwave absorbent and supporter. TiO 2 nanopowders were loaded on the surface of SiC modified by hexadecyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) via the hydrothermal route. The as-prepared TiO 2 –CTAB–SiC composite was characterized by X-ray diffraction, field-emission scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transformed infrared spectra, inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry and fluorescence emission (PL). Its photocatalytic activity was evaluated by the degradation of rhodamine B in the microwave discharge electrodeless lamp (MDEL) system. The experimental results showed that TiO 2 –CTAB–SiC composite exhibited obviously higher photocatalytic activity in the MDEL system compared with pure TiO 2 nanopowders. Their reusability and separation performance were evaluated by recycling experiments. The reasons for the improvement in photocatalytic performance were discussed in detail.