Efficiency of Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) and Zinc Oxide (ZnO) Photocatalysts in Ammonia Removal from Synthetic Wastewater: A Comparison of Natural and Artificial Light Effects

Document Type : scientific research article

Authors

1 Associate Professor, Department of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran

2 Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran.

Abstract

Background and Objective: In recent decades, the discharge of nitrogenous compounds such as nitrate, nitrite, and ammonia into water bodies has become a serious environmental concern. These pollutants threaten human health and contribute to eutrophication and the degradation of aquatic ecosystems. This study evaluates the efficiency of titanium dioxide (TiO₂) and zinc oxide (ZnO) photocatalysts in removing ammonia from synthetic wastewater under natural and artificial light conditions, aiming to optimize photocatalytic wastewater treatment processes.
Materials and Methods: Experiments were conducted using TiO₂ and ZnO photocatalysts at varying concentrations under both natural and artificial (LED) light. Synthetic wastewater containing ammonia was treated, and removal efficiency was measured. Key parameters included photocatalyst concentration (e.g., 0.5 g/L), light source, and reaction time. The ammonia removal efficiency was quantified using standard analytical methods.
Results: Both photocatalysts showed higher efficiency under artificial light, with TiO₂ achieving 97.67% ammonia removal (0.5 g/L, LED) and ZnO reaching 90.34% under similar conditions. Reducing photocatalyst concentration improved treatment efficiency, emphasizing the need for optimized concentration and light conditions.
Conclusion: The study demonstrates the high potential of TiO₂ and ZnO photocatalysts for ammonia removal, particularly under artificial light. These findings support the application of photocatalytic technology in industrial and agricultural wastewater treatment, offering a pathway toward sustainable and efficient water purification systems. Further research should focus on scaling up the process for real-world applications.

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Journal of Utilization and Cultivation of Aquatics
Volume 15, Issue 2
July 2026
Pages 109-124

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