Synthesis of low-density polyethylene derived carbon nanotubes for activation of persulfate and degradation of water organic micropollutants in continuous mode

Year: 2022

Type: article

Abstract: Plastic derived carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were tested as catalysts in persulfate activation for the first time. Four catalysts were prepared by wetness impregnation and co-precipitation (using Al2O3, Ni, Fe and/or Al) and implemented to grow CNTs by chemical vapour deposition (CVD) using low-density polyethylene (LDPE) as carbon feedstock. A catalyst screening was performed in batch mode and the best performing CNTs ([email protected]+Fe/Al2O3-cp) led to a high venlafaxine mass removal rate (3.17 mg g−1 h−1) in ultrapure water after 90 min (even with a mixture of micropollutants). Its degradation increased when the matrix was replaced by drinking water and negligibly affected in surface water. A composite polymeric membrane was then fabricated with [email protected]+Fe/Al2O3-cp and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), a high venlafaxine mass removal rate in surface water being also observed in 24 h of continuous operation. Therefore, the results herein reported open a window of opportunity for the valorisation of plastic wastes in this catalytic application performed in continuous mode.

Source: Journal of Environmental Management

DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.114622

Authors: Rui S. Ribeiro, Octávia Vieira, Rita Fernandes, Fernanda F. Roman, Jose L. Diaz de Tuesta, Adrián M.T. Silva, Helder T. Gomes

Institutions: Universidade do Porto, Universidade Politécnica de Bragança, Centro de Investigação de Montanha

Language: English

Topic: Advanced oxidation water treatment

Subfield: Water Science and Technology

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Clean water and sanitation, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,590

Funders: Kansainvälisen Liikkuvuuden ja Yhteistyön Keskus, Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Ensino Superior, Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia

OpenAlex ID: W4210793867