Synergistic ZnO–CuO/Halloysite Nanocomposite for Photocatalytic Degradation of Ciprofloxacin with High Stability and Reusability
2025
Willams A. Albuquerque | Adilson J. Neres Filho | Yonny Romaguera-Barcelay | Santiago Medina-Carrasco | Maria del Mar Orta | Pollyana Trigueiro | Ramón Raudel Peña-Garcia
This study focused on creating a novel material by integrating ZnO and CuO nanoparticles into the structure of halloysite using a hydrothermal method. The formation of the nanocomposite was validated through X-ray diffraction and Raman analysis, which confirmed the presence of ZnO and CuO phases without compromising the structure of halloysite. Microscopic analysis revealed a well-distributed presence of metallic oxide nanoparticles within the nanotubular structure of halloysite, which adhered to both the outer and inner surfaces of the clay mineral. Optical characterization identified a substantial density of defects, which played a key role in improving the performance of the supported semiconductors. Furthermore, the narrow band gap at 3.02 eV promoted the mobility of photogenerated charges. Photocatalytic tests yielded promising results, demonstrating a synergistic effect between photocatalysis and adsorption processes that positively influenced the removal of ciprofloxacin from solutions. The material achieved up to 76% removal of the antibiotic within 120 min, utilizing a catalyst concentration of 0.5 g L&minus:1 with a pollutant concentration of 20 mg L&minus:1. In reuse experiments, the material exhibited high recyclability even after multiple reaction cycles. Halloysite-based nanocomposites represent a strategic advancement in environmental remediation technologies, contributing to the development of clean, effective, and reusable materials.
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