Removal of volatile organic compounds using a membrane catalytic process involving a [BMIM]PF6 ionic liquid membrane and visible light-driven N-La-TiO2 photocatalysts

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from industrial activities and transportation pose significant health risks to humans and contribute to environmental issues. As a result, there has been growing interest in developing effective technologies for VOC removal. This study investigates the removal of low-concentration VOCs from air using a membrane catalytic process that combines a supported ionic liquid membrane (SILM) with a novel visible light-driven photocatalyst. The system, consisting of a 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate ([BMIM]PF6) SILM and N-doped La-TiO2 photocatalysts, achieves a mineralization rate of 40%-60% and a removal efficiency of approximately 75% for VOCs under visible light exposure for 10 hours. The synergistic effects of membrane separation and photocatalytic degradation significantly enhance the overall VOC removal efficiency compared to using either method alone. The membrane catalytic system demonstrates particular applicability and stability for various organic compounds, including toluene, acetone, chloroform, benzene, and xylene. Overall, this work presents a promising approach for the removal and mineralization of VOCs.