Enhanced photodegradation of polyethylene microplastics via tea polyphenol-hematite complex: Critical role of a light-driven Fenton-like cascade initiated by ligand-to-metal charge transfer

Yuliang Tu; Yan Zhang; Hong Deng; Yanfeng Huang; Jianle Wang; Cong Liu

doi:10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.141900

0

Article ? AI-assigned paper type based on the abstract. Classification may not be perfect — flag errors using the feedback button. Sign in to save

Enhanced photodegradation of polyethylene microplastics via tea polyphenol-hematite complex: Critical role of a light-driven Fenton-like cascade initiated by ligand-to-metal charge transfer

npj Emerging Contaminants 2026

Yuliang Tu, Yan Zhang, Hong Deng, Yanfeng Huang, Jianle Wang, Cong Liu

Summary

Researchers created a composite photocatalytic material by coupling tea polyphenols with hematite iron oxide, which under visible light triggers a self-regenerating Fenton-like reaction that continuously produces hydroxyl radicals, achieving highly efficient degradation of polyethylene microplastics and offering a sustainable, solar-driven remediation strategy using widely available natural materials.