Enhanced catalytic performance of magnesium ferrites in the heterogeneous photo-fenton degradation of Rhodamine B

This study explored the use of magnesium ferrites synthesized via conventional co-precipitation (MF) and ultrasound-assisted co-precipitation (MFus) for the heterogeneous photo-Fenton degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB). The catalysts were characterized using XRD, XRF, UV–Vis DRS, Raman, FTIR, and N₂ physisorption, providing detailed insights into their structural, optical, and textural properties. The effects of hydrogen peroxide dosage and catalyst concentration on RhB degradation under acidic conditions were systematically evaluated.The MFus catalyst, synthesized with ultrasound assistance, achieved an Fe/Mg atomic ratio of 3.07, close to the stoichiometric value of 2, while the conventionally prepared sample (MF) exhibited a higher ratio of 6.11, with both samples segregating the α-Fe₂O₃ phase. Notably, the MFus catalyst displayed 3 to 7 times higher catalytic activity than MF, and α-Fe₂O₃ respectively, attributed to its improved textural properties and optimized pore structure. These findings underscore the superior performance of MFus and its potential for advanced wastewater treatment applications.