Photocatalytic disinfection for point-of-use water treatment using Ti3+ self-doping TiO2 nanoparticle decorated ceramic disk filter

The challenge from pathogenic infections still threatens the health and life of people in developing areas. An efficient, low-cost, and abundant-resource disinfection method is desired for supplying safe drinking water . This study aims to develop a novel Ti 3+ doping TiO 2 nanoparticle decorated ceramic disk filter (Ti 3+ /TiO 2 @CDF) for point-of-use (POU) disinfection of drinking water. The production of Ti 3+ /TiO 2 @CDF was optimized to maximize disinfection efficiency and flow rate. Under optimal conditions, the log reduction value (LRV) could reach up to 7.18 and the flaw rate was 108 mL/h. The influences of environmental factors were also investigated. Natural or slightly alkaline conditions, low turbidity , and low concentration of humic acid were favorable for the disinfection of Ti 3+ /TiO 2 @CDF, while co-existing HCO 3 − ions and diatomic cations (Ca 2+ and Mg 2+ ) exhibited the opposite effect. Furthermore, the practicability and stability of Ti 3+ /TiO 2 @CDF was demonstrated. Ti 3+ /TiO 2 @CDF showed high disinfection efficiency for E. coli and S. aureus under a range of concentrations. Long-term experiment indicated that Ti 3+ /TiO 2 @CDF was stable. The underlying disinfection mechanisms were investigated and concluded as the combination of retention, adsorption, and photocatalytic disinfection. The developed Ti 3+ /TiO 2 @CDF can provide an effective and reliable disinfection tool for POU water treatment in remote area.