In situ synthesis of cobalt ferrites-embedded hollow N-doped carbon as an outstanding catalyst for elimination of organic pollutants

Tao Zeng; Mingdong Yu; Haiyan Zhang; Zhiqiao He; Xiaole Zhang; Jianmeng Chen; Shuang Song

doi:10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.03.180

In situ synthesis of cobalt ferrites-embedded hollow N-doped carbon as an outstanding catalyst for elimination of organic pollutants

Sci Total Environ. 2017 Sep 1:593-594:286-296. doi: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.03.180. Epub 2017 Mar 24.

Authors

Tao Zeng¹, Mingdong Yu¹, Haiyan Zhang¹, Zhiqiao He¹, Xiaole Zhang², Jianmeng Chen¹, Shuang Song³

Affiliations

¹ College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, Zhejiang province, PR China.
² College of Life Science, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan 063000, Hebei province, PR China.
³ College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, Zhejiang province, PR China. Electronic address: ss@zjut.edu.cn.

PMID: 28346902
DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.03.180

Abstract

Using polydopamine-metal ions complex as precursor, hollow mesoporous N-doped carbon microspheres encapsulating spinel ferrites nanocrystals (HM-NC/CoFe₂O₄) were facilely prepared with the aim of creating a novel heterogeneous catalyst for sulfate radical-based oxidation of organic contaminants. The surface morphology, structure and composition of HM-NC/CoFe₂O₄ catalyst were thoroughly investigated. The applicability of the catalyst was systematically assessed through numerous controlled trials, several operating parameters, as well as different model pollutants by means of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation. Outstanding efficiency and excellent reusability were achieved due to the unique structure and composition of HM-NC/CoFe₂O₄. The HM-NC scaffold with high porosity and surface area not only stabilizes the CoFe₂O₄ nanoparticles but also greatly facilitates the accessibility and adsorption of substrates to the active sites. In addition, both HM-NC and CoFe₂O₄ on the material surface can act as active sites. Sulfate radicals and hydroxyl radicals are identified as main active species and a possible enhancement mechanism of catalytic performance is also proposed. Due to the simple synthesis method, low-cost precursors, unique structure and excellent catalytic activity and stability, this novel composite have great potential as new strategic materials for remediation of water pollution.

Keywords: Heterogeneous degradation; Hollow N-doped carbon; Organic contaminants; Peroxymonosulfate; Spinel ferrites nanocrystals.