Work

Enhanced photocatalytic degradation of sulfadiazine under LED light using Pd-decorated g-C3N4: Structure–activity relationship, mechanism, and toxicity assessment

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C 3 N 4 ) is a sustainable photocatalyst, however, its practical application is severely limited by rapid charge recombination and insufficient redox capability. In this work, a Pd x OCN-y photocatalyst was synthesized via photoreduction and evaluated under LED irradiation. The Pd 8 OCN-3 sample exhibited superior performance toward sulfadiazine (SDZ) degradation, achieving 90% removal within 180 min, with a reaction rate 6.53 times higher than that of pristine g-C 3 N 4 . The enhanced activity was attributed to increased surface area, narrowed bandgap, improved charge separation, and suppressed electron–hole recombination. Radical scavenging tests indicated •O 2 − and •OH as the dominant reactive species. Pd 8 OCN-3 also demonstrated high stability and recyclability across multiple cycles. Additionally, phytotoxicity assays using mung bean germination confirmed the reduced toxicity of degradation products, in agreement with QSAR-based predictions. This study not only elucidates the structure–activity relationship of Pd x OCN-y but also provides a viable strategy for designing highly efficient and eco-safe photocatalysts for antibiotic-contaminated wastewater treatment.

Source: Journal of Water Process Engineering

DOI: 10.1016/j.jwpe.2026.109606

Authors: Oanh T.K. Nguyen, Vinh Huu Nguyen, Taeyoon Lee, Trinh Duy Nguyen

Institutions: Trường ĐH Nguyễn Tất Thành, Pukyong National University

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: $3,350