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Photocatalytic Performance of Spinel Ferrites and their Carbon-Based Composites for Environmental Pollutant Degradation
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This review examined spinel ferrite nanomaterials and their carbon-based composites as photocatalysts for degrading water pollutants, finding strong adsorption and photocatalytic activity for dyes, pharmaceuticals, heavy metals, and microplastics under UV and visible light, with magnetic separation enabling easy catalyst recovery. Multifunctional spinel ferrite composites show promise as scalable, reusable water treatment materials capable of addressing the growing challenge of microplastic contamination in water systems.
Spinel ferrites are magnetic materials that possess excellent magnetic properties, high surface area, high chemical stability, and tuneable characteristics, making them ideal for water purification. Owing to their multifunctionality and magnetic separation capability, these materials offer high adsorption efficiencies and rapid kinetics for removing pollutants such as metal ions, dyes, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, spinel ferrites and their nanocomposites, particularly those combined with carbon materials, show strong photocatalytic activity in degrading contaminants. These materials generate active radicals under visible and UV light, offering a low-cost, efficient solution for water treatment. While promising, further studies are needed to advance their practical application in water treatment plants. Despite their potential, a complete understanding of the degradation mechanisms and adsorption processes concerning emerging pollutants such as dyes, pharmaceuticals and microplastics, remains incomplete. This review critically examines factors influencing the performance of spinel ferrites, including particle size, shape, substitution, and functionalization, to provide insights into their molecular-level interactions with pollutants. It analyses how synthesis methods and material modifications, such as carbon coatings and substitutions, enhance photocatalytic degradation efficiency. Additionally, the review addresses magnetic separation techniques, durability over multiple cycles, and regeneration and reusability capabilities. By consolidating current knowledge and identifying research gaps, this comprehensive analysis aims to guide the future development of spinel ferrite-based purification technologies.
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Tiny plastic particles called micro- and nanoplastics are turning up everywhere, in our oceans, soil, and likely our bodies, raising concerns about long-term health effects. This review rounds up the latest science on using light-activated materials (photocatalysts) to break down these plastic particles, including newer "green" methods made from plants, algae, and bacteria that could make cleanup cheaper and more eco-friendly. While these technologies are still being developed rather than ready for widespread use, they represent a promising direction for tackling plastic pollution at its source.
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