Photocatalyzed degradation of polymers in aqueous semiconductor suspensions. I. Photooxidation of solid particles of polyvinylchloride

The photocatalyzed oxidative decompositions of solid particles of polyvinylchloride (PVC; size about 100 to 200 μm), of the polyvinylidene chloride copolymer (95% PVC/5% PVLC; size ∼ 400–600 μm), and a PVC film have been examined in suspensions of titania and zinc oxide illuminated by UV light and/or by natural sunlight. Dechlorination and evolution of carbon dioxide were monitored, the latter occurring by the intermediacy of acetic and formic acids. The photodegradation of polymer specimens was enhanced in TiO₂/water media by such added oxidants as hydrogen peroxide and potassium persulfate. Photocorrosion of these particulates was also examined by scanning electron microscopy. © 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.