Utilizing Sequence Transformation of Selective Copper Metal as an Efficient Heterogeneous Fenton-like Catalyst for the Degradation of Aqueous Methylene Blue

Abstract

Abstract This article elucidates the pivotal role of catalysts in effecting the selective deposition of copper metal onto carbon black extracted from discarded tires via the Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) technique. The CVD process involves intricate chemical interactions between gaseous constituents, facilitating the formation of thin coatings on substrate surfaces. This method, noted for generating materials of elevated purity, density, and strength, has gained prominence in diverse sectors including heterogeneous catalysis. Selective Metal by Chemical Vapor Deposition (SMCVD) represents an augmentation approach for fabricating nanomaterials on thermally delicate substrates, leveraging suitable metal catalysts. These catalysts not only facilitate deposition at notably low temperatures but also yield high-purity films. The study presents empirical evidence of proficient synthesis of selective metal heterogeneous catalysts through CVD. Furthermore, the application of SMCVD as an economical means for large-scale production of pristine carbon black from tire waste is delineated. Given the pertinence of curbing organic dye pollution for ecological and human well-being, the article underscores the promise of heterogeneous Fenton oxidation as a remediation technique. This involves the removal of organic pollutants and is reliant on Fenton-like catalysts. The study details the creation of such catalysts (Cu-CB) via the CVD deposition of copper metal onto carbon black derived from discarded tires. The resultant Cu-CB catalyst finds utility as a stimulant for H2O2 in Fenton-like degradation, particularly of aqueous methyl blue (MB), a prototypical organic pollutant, across a broad pH spectrum. Empirical investigations encompassing variables such as pH, Cu-CB concentration, H2O2 dosage, and initial MB concentration were conducted to discern their influence on MB removal. Remarkably, degradation efficiencies of up to 97% were achieved within 30 minutes under near-neutral pH conditions, employing 100 mg/L of H2O2 and 0.075 g/L of Cu-CB. Moreover, the reusability of Cu-CB for multiple cycles, alongside a facile regeneration process devoid of supplementary chemicals, underscores its practical efficacy. The article encompasses a suite of analytical techniques—FESEM, EDS, BET surface analysis, XRD, FTIR, and XPS—to characterize the developed catalyst. A scavenging assay affirms the pivotal role of hydroxyl radicals (•OH) as the chief reactive oxygen species (ROS) responsible for MB degradation. In summation, the study presents an innovative catalyst design strategy, exemplified by the heterogeneous Cu-CB/H2O2 system, with promising implications for organic dye wastewater treatment.