Novel biochar supported heterojunction of RH-BC (Fe0/Au0) catalyst: A highly efficient catalyst in the degradation of micro-pollutants

Abstract

The loading of Fe and Au bimetallic nanoparticles onto the bio-char (RH-BC, rice husk derived) using the novel and eco-friendly process yielded heterojunction RH-BC (Fe0/Au0) nanocomposite. The Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam phytochemicals enable the in situ synthesis of these nanoparticles. Various analytical tools characterize the materials to a greater extent. The photo-Fenton-like processes under dark, LED-VIS, and UV-A light irradiations assess the efficiency of heterojunction catalyst in the degradation of potential micro-pollutants viz., tetracycline hydrochloride and N-(n-propyl) thiourea. Indigenous batch reactor operations optimize the parametric studies, viz., pH of the solution, catalyst dosage, and hydrogen peroxide dosage in the removal process. The maximum degradation of targeted pollutants in the photo-Fenton-like process was 93.75% (LED-VIS), 98.43% (UV-A) for TC, while 92.48% (LED-VIS), 93.57% (UV-A) for N-(n-propyl) thiourea, respectively. The parametric studies demonstrate the mechanistic aspects of the degradation process. The repeated use of the catalyst for five consecutive cycles showed an equivalent rate of degradation percentage and hence showed fair stability. The successful application of the novel Fenton-like catalyst in a real water system showed an insignificant change in percentage degradation, which raises the possibility of a broader application to the treatment of water contaminated by these potential micropollutants.