Photocatalytic Degradation of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Simulated Offshore Oil Spill Wastewater by Magnesium Phthalocyanine Derivatives Supported on Coconut Shell Activated Carbon
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are highly toxic pollutants in marine ecosystems, necessitating efficient remediation. This study synthesized magnesium phthalocyanine (MgPc) and its modified derivatives, magnesium azaphthalocyanine (NMgPc) and methyl-substituted magnesium azaphthalocyanine (MeNMgPc), as visible-light-driven photocatalysts for PAH degradation. To enhance efficiency and recoverability, these photosensitizers were immobilized onto coconut shell activated carbon (AC) via multiple ultrasonic impregnation. Characterizations (UV-Vis, SEM, EDAX, BET) confirmed successful active component deposition; nitrogen substitution and peripheral methyl groups synergistically tuned the electronic structure and suppressed aggregation. Under xenon lamp irradiation, the MeNMgPc/C composite exhibited superior activity, degrading 90.55% of naphthalene. Box-Behnken response surface optimization identified optimal conditions (13.18 g/L dosage, 20 A, 2.28 h), yielding 96.67% experimental removal and adhering to pseudo-first-order kinetics. Mechanistic studies via electron spin resonance identified hydroxyl (•OH) and superoxide radicals (O2•−) as primary reactive species. GC-MS analysis elucidated a sequential phenanthrene ring-opening pathway, progressing to ultimate mineralization into CO2. Consequently, MeNMgPc/C presents a highly efficient, recoverable photocatalytic platform for marine PAH remediation.
Source: Catalysts
Authors: Dejun Wang, Hui Li, Lihua Liang, Juan Su, Jifang Wei, Dong Wang, Changjiang Zuo, Qiyou Liu
Language: English
Field: Energy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,654
OpenAlex ID: W7161647008