Electrocatalytic oxidation of antidiabetic drug metformin adsorbed on intercalated MXene

Two-dimensional (2D) Ti3C2Tx transition metal carbide (MXene) nanosheets intercalated with sodium ions (SI-Ti3C2Tx MXene) were used in the adsorption and electrochemical regeneration process for removal of the antidiabetic drug metformin (MF) as a model emerging pollutant. After MF adsorption, SI-Ti3C2Tx MXene oxidized the MF on its surface through its electrocatalytic activity at very low current density and cell potential. For complete oxidation the optimum parameters were 0.525 C g- 1, 0.005 mA cm-2, and pH 6 in absence of NaCl or 26.25 C g- 1 and 0.5 mA cm-2 in the presence of 2.5 w/v% NaCl. The overall regeneration of SI-Ti3C2Tx is governed by a combined mechanism, i.e., desorption followed by degradation. The degradation mechanism, such as direct electron transfer or indirect oxidation, depends on the applied operating conditions. Thus, the inves-tigation suggests that these 2D sheets are good nanoadsorbents as well as good electrocatalysts and proves their usefulness in practical water-treatment applications.

Automated summary

This study demonstrates the potential of two-dimensional MXene nanosheets for adsorption and electrochemical regeneration of antidiabetic drug metformin, providing insights into their application in water treatment.