The implementation of ZnS–SnS BM NPs for phenanthrene degradation: An adsorptive photocatalyst approach and its toxicity studies in adult zebrafish

Abstract

Phenanthrene is a persistent organic pollutant released by numerous industries. The purpose of the study is to construct a batch reactor for phenanthrene degradation using a bimetallic (BM) ZnS–SnS nanoparticle as a photocatalyst. ZnS–SnS BM NPs were used as a photocatalyst, employed from precursors Zinc acetate dihydrate and tin (II) chloride dihydrate, with crystalline cubic-shaped particle sizes. ZnS–SnS BM NPs were utilized in batch adsorption assays to assess the impact of phenanthrene degradation parameters on various PAHs (Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) concentrations, pH levels, and irradiation sources. Adsorption kinetic and isotherm tests revealed that the pseudo-first order kinetic model, pseudo-second order kinetic model, and Langmuir isotherm model all fit effectively with the effective phenanthrene degradation using ZnS–SnS BM NPs. The degraded product were analyzed for GC-MS, revealing that organic pollutant phenanthrene was converted into harmless by-products like n-hexadecenoic acid, oleic acid, and octadecanoic acid. The toxicity of phenanthrene was observed to decrease with an increase in ZnS–SnS BM NPs concentration. ZnS–SnS BM NP concentration of 150 μg/mL, the zone of inhibition values was recorded highest zone of inhibition (19 ± 1.2 mm) against the strains S. epidermis followed by B. cereus and Clostridium spp. Further adult zebrafish were found to be less toxic to ZnS–SnS BM NPs after 96 h of exposure, with an LD50 of 100 μg/L. The toxicity escalated as concentrations increased. Behavior test showed normal swimming, learning, and memory in open tank and T-maze tests, while 100 μg/L showed pausing/frozen time in zebra fish therefore low doses are considered safe. Hence by employing ZnS–SnS BM NPs can be engaged in waste water treatment for PAH degradation.