Design of a 3D nanowire-CuO/LDH@FeNi-γAl2O3 catalyst and its synergistic mechanism for accelerated dye degradation in wastewater

TL;DR

This paper introduces a new 3D catalyst that efficiently removes dyes from wastewater using advanced oxidation techniques.

Contribution

The study presents a novel γAl2O3-supported FeNiCu-layered double hydroxide/CuO composite catalyst with enhanced electrocatalytic performance.

Findings

The composite electrode γAl3O3 × FNCL@CuO achieved high degradation rates for RhB, AY, and MB (98.82%, 99.99%, and 98.97%).

The 3D structure improved oxidation by increasing contact between active sites and reactants.

Radical scavengers had minimal effect on dye degradation in the 3D system.

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) particle electrode oxidation technology is an effective advanced oxidation technology for degrading organic pollutants. In this study, a series of γAl2O3-supported FeNiCu-layered double hydroxide/CuO composite catalysts (γAl3O3 × FNCL@CuO) were synthesized, with the aim of optimizing the electrode preparation process and enhancing the electrocatalytic degradation efficiency for organic dye wastewater. Although γAl2O3 itself exhibits relatively low electronic activity, it serves as an effective catalytic support with notable performance-promoting properties, thus representing a valuable subject for investigation. The materials were characterized using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The composite electrode γAl3O3 × FNCL@CuO was compared with a pure γAl2O3 3D particle electrode in terms of performance. The results demonstrated that the composite electrode significantly outperformed the pure γAl2O3 electrode in pollutant removal and overall electrocatalytic activity. The degradation rates for rhodamine B (RhB), acid yellow (AY), and methylene blue (MB) reached 98.82%, 99.99%, and 98.97%, respectively. Furthermore, comparisons between two-dimensional (2D) and 3D systems revealed that the porous 3D structure facilitates the oxidation process by increasing the contact interface between active sites and reactant molecules. Quenching experiments confirmed that radical scavengers had only a minor inhibitory effect on RhB degradation in the 3D system. In conclusion, γAl3O3 × FNCL@CuO shows promising potential for application in the electrochemical treatment of organic wastewater and merits further research.

The heterojunction of γAl2O3 × FNCL@CuO particles was elucidated. The excellent degradation of dyes and stability of particles were demonstrated. The mechanism of dye removal in the 3D system has been elucidated.

Figures