Degradation of emerging pollutants using XC-ZnO-CuFe2O4 as photocatalyst

• Grant number: 23/13127-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: November 01, 2023
• End date: October 31, 2024
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Chemical Engineering - Chemical Technology
• Principal Investigator: Liana Alvares Rodrigues
• Grantee: Lucas Henrique Cardia
• Host Institution: Escola de Engenharia de Lorena (EEL). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Lorena , SP, Brazil

Abstract

In this project, we will investigate the preparation of the CuFe2O4/ZnO/carbon Xerogel (XC) composite. The primary goal of this study is to develop a composite material that is responsive to both sunlight and visible light and possesses a high oxidation and reduction potential. The selection of CuFe2O4 was based on its valence and conduction bands, as well as its magnetic properties, which facilitate the separation of the photocatalyst from the effluent. Carbon xerogel will be employed as a solid-state mediator to induce S-scheme charge transfer in p-n heterojunctions. The materials will be characterized using techniques such as diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffractometry, infrared and Raman spectroscopy, and N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms. The photocatalytic action of the material will be assessed in the degradation of emerging pollutants, specifically salicylic acid (AS) and 4-chlorophenol (4-CP), in a batch reactor.