Work

Scavenger-free solar photocatalytic degradation of Textile Dyes and Antibiotics using magnetically separable bi-junctional photocatalyst

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Solar photocatalysis faces challenges due to low photon-to-electron conversion efficiency in existing photocatalysts, leading to suboptimal degradation rates for water pollutants. For this, we developed novel scavenger-free, magnetically separable, bi-junctional solar photocatalyst comprising Fe2+-doped zincferrite-core, ZnO-shell, and CuO on its surface. With two physically distinct heterojunctions and sunlight absorption regions, this photocatalyst under direct sunlight achieved ~4-fold faster degradation of Methyl Orange than core-shell nanoparticles. It meets critical criteria for an effective solar photocatalyst: excellent sunlight absorption, efficient charge carrier generation, and easy nanoparticle separation using a magnet. Furthermore, it efficiently degrades fluoroquinolone antibiotics and textile dyes. Coating it with a thin layer of silver doubled the degradation rate, attributed to the Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance(LSPR) effect. The current work presents an effective and economical option for removing dyes and antibiotics in wastewater, marking a significant stride towards sustainable industrial practices.

Source: Materials Research Bulletin

DOI: 10.1016/j.materresbull.2024.113074

Authors: Karan Menon, Antony Dasint Lopis, K.S. Choudhari, Bhavana Kulkarni, Sanjeev Maradur, Suresh D. Kulkarni

Institutions: Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Poornaprajna Institute of Scientific Research

Language: English

Topic: Advanced Photocatalysis Techniques

Subfield: Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Clean water and sanitation, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,500