Synthesis and Characterization of Graphene-Supported Nb2O5.La2O3.CeO2 Catalyst for Electrochemical Removal of Endocrine Disruptors by Advanced Electrochemical Oxidative Process

• Grant number: 24/07183-8
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Post-doctor
• Start date: March 01, 2025
• End date: February 28, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Sanitary Engineering - Water Supply and Wastewater Treatment
• Principal Investigator: Artur de Jesus Motheo
• Grantee: Thays de Souza Lima
• Supervisor: Manuel Andres Rodrigo Rodrigo
• Host Institution: Instituto de Química de São Carlos (IQSC). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Carlos , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real (UCLM), Spain
• Associated to the scholarship: 22/04561-6 - Synthesis and characterization of a ternary hybrid catalyst (Nb2O5.La2O3.CeO2) supported on graphene to act as a cathode in the removal of endocrine disruptors by advanced oxidative process electrochemical (AOPEs)", BP.PD

Abstract

Endocrine disruptors (EDs) pose a significant threat because their disruptive effects on the endocrine system in animals and humans, leading to imbalances in hormones and affecting developmental processes like reproduction, neurology, and immunity. This project seeks to address this issue by leveraging advanced oxidative processes electrochemical (AOPEs), known for their effectiveness in eliminating emerging pollutants. At the core of this initiative lies the synthesis and characterization of a ternary electrocatalyst comprising niobium oxide, lanthanum oxide, and cerium oxide (Nb2O5.La2O3.CeO2), supported on graphene. These materials will be incorporated into the production of gaseous diffusion electrodes (GDEs) to serve as the cathode for hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) electrogeneration. Additionally, boron-doped diamond electrodes (DDBs) will function as the anode in various processes, including electro-Fenton, photo electro-Fenton, and simulated solar photo electro-Fenton (both homogeneous and heterogeneous). The primary objective is the degradation of EDs such as pesticides and pharmaceuticals in aqueous environments. A novel aspect of the project involves the integration of cerium meso-structures into the solution during simulated solar photo electro-Fenton heterogeneous processes, aiming to harness cerium's catalytic potential. Through these extensive investigations, the project endeavors to develop a robust methodology for efficiently removing EDs from aquatic matrices, thereby mitigating their environmental impact.