Synergistic catalysis of Fe3O4/CuO bimetallic catalyst derived from Prussian blue analogues for the efficient decomposition of various organic pollutants

In-situ synthesis of CuO/Fe3O4 nano-composite from Cu-Fe based Prussian Blue Analogues (PBA) by using as a precursor is reported. CuO/Fe3O4 catalyst was practiced as a heterogeneous catalyst, by activating persulfate (PS), for the photo-decomposition of different azo dyes (RhB, MO, CR) under visible light. CuO/Fe3O4 catalyst has validated its excellent photocatalytic removal of all three organic dyes. Synergistic linkage of Fe3O4 with CuO has enhanced the light absorption of CuO/Fe3O4 catalyst resulting in excellent photocatalytic removal of all pollutants under various pH systems amongst which neutral pH was found the efficient one. ESR and radicals capturing studies revealed that SO4 center dot- and HO center dot radicals are dominant ones. The mechanism and the reaction pathway for the decomposition of RhB were also identified. Excellent recycling and stability of as-prepared bimetallic catalyst make it highly favorable, as its application for the removal of organic pollutants to address health remediation and environmental toxicology.

Automated summary

The study reports the in-situ synthesis of CuO/Fe3O4 nano-composite from Cu-Fe based Prussian Blue Analogues, which shows excellent photocatalytic removal of various azo dyes under visible light, with neutral pH being the most efficient condition. ESR and radical capturing studies indicate that SO4•- and HO• radicals are the dominant ones. The mechanism and reaction pathway for RhB decomposition confirm the reliability and stability of the bimetallic catalyst.