Three-dimensional gel network structure of agarose interlayer dispersed Pd nanoparticles in copper foam electrode for electrocatalytic degradation of doxycycline hydrochloride

Abstract

In this study, we successfully prepared palladium/agarose/copper foam (Pd/AG/CF) composite electrodes by utilizing the three-dimensional network structure agarose (AG), a green material derived from biomass, and homogeneously immobilizing palladium (Pd) atoms on a copper foam (CF) substrate through a facile route. The electrode showed excellent performance in the electrocatalytic degradation of doxycycline (DOX), with a high DOX degradation rate of 92.19 % in 60 min. In-depth studies revealed that palladium can form metal-metal interactions with the CF substrates, which enhances the electron transfer on the catalyst surface. In addition, the introduction of agarose effectively prevented the agglomeration of palladium nanoparticles. In addition, the hydroxyl functional groups in the molecular structure of agarose facilitate interactions between water molecules and the electrode interface through the formation of hydrogen bonds, thereby further enhancing the efficiency of the electrocatalytic reaction. In addition to good stability and reusability. Microbial toxicity test results show that the degraded wastewater has minimal impact on the environment. Also, possible degradation pathways of DOX were explored in this study. Finally, a novel continuous flow reactor was designed, featuring a unique design that ensures full contact between wastewater and the composite electrodes, thereby achieving continuous and efficient treatment of antibiotic wastewater.