Method, catalyst, and photocatalyst for the destruction of phosgene

The present invention relates to a process for treating a contaminated gas stream and to a catalyst for reducing the phosgene content in the gas stream by conversion of the contaminant into less harmful products. In accordance with the present invention, a catalyst is described which comprises at least one metal selected from the group consisting of copper, zinc, iron, tungsten, molybdenum, and chromium distributed over a catalyst support comprising a material containing at least one of silicon, titanium, zirconium, magnesium, aluminum, and activated carbon. The catalyst is used to remove phosgene from a contaminated gas stream and/or reduce or eliminate phosgene from an effluent of a previously treated gas stream. At least one metal in the catalyst of the present invention is preferably present in an amount from about 0.001 wt % to about 15 wt %. When more than one metal is present, the combined metals preferably do not exceed 20 wt %. Catalysts in accordance with the present invention may be used as Photocatalysts. Processes for using the catalysts and Photocatalysts of the present invention are also described.