Enhanced peroxidase activity of modified MoS₂-PEG nanoparticles: a facilitator for cefotaxime degradation

This study investigates the enhancement of molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂) nanoparticles with polyethylene glycol (PEG) to improve peroxidase activity and antibiotic degradation capabilities. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirmed successful modification, showing shifts in Mo and S binding energies. Scanning electron microscopy revealed an increase in nanoparticle size from 117.8–178.74 nm (MoS₂) to 99.73–200.20 µm (MoS₂-PEG), likely due to agglomeration. MoS₂-PEG demonstrated optimal peroxidase activity at 60 µg/mL concentration and 12 mM H₂O₂, with maximum efficiency at pH 5 and 30 °C, highlighting its pH sensitivity and moderate thermal stability. Under these conditions, MoS₂-PEG achieved nearly complete degradation of 10 mg/L Cefotaxime (CFX) within 312 min, identifying three metabolites (CFX 1, CFX 2, and CFX 3) in the degradation pathway. The study concludes that MoS₂-PEG nanoparticles are effective for peroxidase reactions and antibiotic degradation, positioning them as promising candidates for wastewater treatment. Their stability, reusability, and potential for sustainable applications underscore their value in developing cost-effective solutions for removing antibiotics from contaminated water sources.