Dye removal using electrochemistry and semiconductor oxide nanotubes

Abstract

Toxic synthetic dyes are polluting industry effluents and waters. Therefore, there is a need for methods to remove organic dyes and clean water. Advanced oxidation processes using Fenton reagent and electrochemical oxidation are efficient methods. It has also been shown that hydrothermally processed nanotubes and nanosheets of semiconductor oxides can decompose organic synthetic dyes. Such a reaction is typically done in the dark with a strong oxidizer such as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), without any need for an external radiation or power source. Here, we review current knowledge on such remediation methods.