Quantum efficiencies in a multi-annular photocatalytic reactor.

Radiative energy efficiencies of a multi-annular photocatalytic reactor were evaluated and analysed. The total quantum efficiency, defined as the ratio of the number of molecules of the pollutant reacted to the number of photons emitted by the lamp, is expressed as the product of three factors: (i) the reactor radiation incidence efficiency, (ii) the catalyst radiation absorption efficiency, and (iii) the overall reaction quantum efficiency. By means of a detailed mathematical model, the numerical values of each one were 83, 92, and 0-2.5%, respectively. The dependence of the overall reaction quantum efficiency upon operating variables was also studied.