Catalytic phenol degradation by iron(III) metal–organic framework: maximizing efficiency with minimum oxidizing reagent
摘要
This research reports solvothermal synthesis of iron(III) metal–organic framework (Fe-MOF) using ferric chloride hexahydrate and phloroglucinol ligand. The synthesized Fe-MOF was characterized using FTIR, powder X-ray diffraction, field emission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. The catalytic potential of synthesized Fe-MOF was evaluated through degradation of a major industrial pollutant phenol. Fe-MOF displayed optimal catalytic activity at lower concentration of hydrogen peroxide (5 mmol), lower Fe-MOF concentration, at 45-degree temperature and in 4 pH conditions. Phenol degradation efficiency was found to be comparatively higher than other conditions of Fe-MOF, H2O2 concentrations and temperature/pH conditions and good recyclability up to four cycles. The minimal use of hydrogen peroxide in the phenol degradation studies highlights efficiency and effectiveness of Fe-MOF as catalyst. The results demonstrate highly active, cost-effective, Fe-MOF catalyst for phenol degradation which can be utilized at industrial level.
Graphical abstract