Developed catalyst that decomposes industrial wastewater, which cannot be filtered by sewage treatment, without light

Researchers at Kyung Hee University have pioneered a novel catalyst technology that efficiently breaks down stubborn pollutants in wastewater, even in the absence of light. This breakthrough, developed by Professor Kim Jong-sik's team in the Department of Chemical Engineering, addresses limitations of conventional methods like Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs).

The new catalyst reframes the role of titanium dioxide (TiO2). Instead of relying on light to generate radicals as in traditional AOPs, the team precisely adjusted the surface's Brønsted and Lewis acid sites by treating TiO2 with hydrogen gas. This optimization significantly boosted the splitting of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) into radicals, dramatically increasing the efficiency of pollutant decomposition. The research identified Brønsted acid sites as key to this reaction, and the team successfully derived and proved the rate law for this hydrogen peroxide splitting mechanism, a world first.

This optimized TiO2 catalyst demonstrates remarkable performance, degrading organic pollutants in water up to 32 times faster than conventional catalysts. Furthermore, it maintains its effectiveness over multiple uses, retaining over 70% of its initial performance even after regeneration. Professor Kim Jong-sik highlighted the catalyst's stability, stating, "We have newly presented a catalyst that stably induces radicals without light and even under harsh aquatic conditions. This technology will lead to the commercialization of advanced oxidation processes in water treatment sites."

The catalyst technology has been patented and is scheduled for technology transfer to businesses in the latter half of 2026. The research received support from the High-Value-Added Advanced Petrochemical Materials Specialist Training Program and the 4th BK21 Program.

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We have newly presented a catalyst that stably induces radicals without light and even under harsh aquatic conditions. This technology will lead to the commercialization of advanced oxidation processes in water treatment sites.