Photocatalysis of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon from Nekede Mechanic Village Using Eco-Benign Titanium Nanoparticles

Student: Oluomachi Anita Anyaehie (Project, 2025)
Department of Biochemistry
Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State

Abstract

ABSTRACT

My study explores the innovative application of eco-benign titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles, synthesized using green methods, for the photocatalytic degradation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in contaminated environments, with Nekede Mechanic Village serving as a critical case study. PAHs, widely recognized for their persistence, toxicity, and carcinogenicity, are prevalent in mechanic villages due to the extensive combustion of fossil fuels, oil spills, and improper waste disposal. Conventional remediation methods often fall short due to high costs, inefficiency, and secondary pollution, necessitating sustainable alternatives. The unique photocatalytic properties of TiO2 nanoparticles, enhanced through green synthesis using Telfairia occidentalis ("Ugu") leaf extract, provide a sustainable and cost-effective approach to degrade PAHs under ambient light. This approach seen in my study demonstrated 99.8% significant potential in mitigating environmental and public health risks posed by PAHs,by degrading this PAH found in Nekede mechanic village,paving the way for scalable, green technologies in environmental cleanup.

Keywords
PAH photocatalysis Titanium nanoparticles Nekede Mechanic Village Environmental remediation Green technology Nanoparticle applications
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