Activity of phthalocyanine-sensitized TiO₂-anatase in photooxidation of sulfite ions

Hybrid catalysts based on the TiO₂ matrix impregnated with Nd, Eu and Yb diphthalocyanines proved effective in oxidation of sulfite ions under irradiation with light from the UV-visible range. Micro- and nano-crystalline anatase powders were used in preparation of the photocatalysts, which were applied in the form of a suspension in the water phase. The reaction yield was found to depend on the phthalocyanine sensitizer used and the conditions of TiO₂ impregnation. The best results were obtained when micro-anatase impregnated with Yb-diphthalocyanine was used.