Sulfur-zinc modified kaolin/steel slag: A particle electrode that efficiently degrades norfloxacin in a neutral/alkaline environment

Chemosphere. 2021 Dec:284:131328. doi: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.131328. Epub 2021 Jun 28.

Abstract

In this work, sulfur and zinc were used to modify the steel slag/kaolin particle electrodes. Sulfur-zinc modified kaolin/steel slag particle electrodes (S-Zn-KSPEs) was successfully prepared. In a wide pH range (pH 3-10), S-Zn-KSPEs could efficiently degrade norfloxacin at low voltage (4 V) within 90 min. The removal rate of NOR by S-Zn-KSPEs was about 100% in acidic environment, more than 90% in neutral environment, and more than 80% in alkaline environment. And S-Zn-KSPEs could also efficiently degrade methylene blue, diuron, levofloxacin and other refractory pollutants under neutral conditions. S-Zn-KSPEs showed good stability and recyclability, and could maintain high catalytic activity after 8 cycles in a neutral or alkaline environment. The possible degradation mechanism and the degradation pathway of norfloxacin are proposed. In addition, S-Zn-KSPEs also showed a higher treatment effect in the treatment of actual surface water bodies. And S-Zn-KSPEs had a strong acid-base buffering capacity, which could avoid some pretreatment measures of wastewater in practical applications.

Keywords: Kaolin; Neutral and alkaline environment; Norfloxacin; Particle electrode; Steel slag; Sulfur.

MeSH terms

  • Electrodes
  • Kaolin*
  • Norfloxacin
  • Steel*
  • Sulfur
  • Zinc

Substances

  • Steel
  • Kaolin
  • Sulfur
  • Zinc
  • Norfloxacin