Reusable iron magnetic catalyst for organic pollutant removal by Adsorption, Fenton and Photo Fenton process

In this study, magnetic iron oxide catalysts were synthesized by two routes, coprecipitation and hydrothermal. The catalysts were characterized by XRD, FTIR, DLS, EDX, N2 at 77 K sorption analysis, Optical microscopy, SEM and TEM. The catalytic capacity was evaluated in the reaction of heterogeneous Fenton and Photo Fenton to degrade Reactive Blue 19, varying pH and H2O2 concentration. In addition, the adsorption contribution, leaching and the reuse of the catalysts were evaluated. The use of magnetite nanoparticles in the Fenton reaction showed that the efficiency depending on the synthetic method, since its performance is directly related to its structural and morphological properties. The catalyst from co-precipitation showed lower particle diameter and better efficiency in the effluent discoloration. However, for the two catalysts significant interference of adsorption process was observed. The UV radiation improved the efficiency, mainly with the catalyst obtained hydrothermally. The catalyst presented maximum removal percentage around 80%, for the best produced by coprecipitation route, also no leaching of the iron was observed. Regeneration studies provided possibility of 8 reuse cycles without significant efficiency reduction, demonstrating a promising alternative to solve sludge problem after Fenton applications.

Automated summary

Magnetic iron oxide catalysts were synthesized and characterized, and their catalytic capacity was evaluated in the degradation of Reactive Blue 19. The synthetic method influenced the efficiency of the catalyst, with the catalyst obtained by coprecipitation showing better performance. UV radiation enhanced the efficiency, particularly for the catalyst obtained hydrothermally. The catalysts could be reused for multiple cycles without significant reduction in efficiency.