M/TiO2/SiO2 (M = Fe, Mn, and V) catalysts in photo-decomposition of sulfur mustard

The photocatalytic decomposition of sulfur mustard (bis(2-chloroethyl)sulfide) has been examined on Fe-, Mn- and V-doped dispersed titania-silica catalysts. The catalysts were prepared by successive incipient wetness impregnation. They have been characterized by means of vibrational (FTIR) and optical (UV–vis–NIR in the DRS mode) spectroscopy. Powder XRD, XPS, and BET were used to characterize the structural morphology and texture. The reaction was carried out in two different types of reactors under both UV and visible light irradiation. The parent titania-silica catalyst showed activity only under UV irradiation, while the doped ones were active in the decontamination of the persistent sulfur mustard even under visible light irradiation.