Cyclized Polyacrylonitrile Supported Single Atom Metal Catalyst for Enhanced Photocatalytic Degradation of Organic Pollutants

Abstract Although metal single atom catalysts (SAC) have been demonstrated to be effective in heterogeneous catalysis, establishing a scalable and cost-effective SAC support system remains an important challenge. Here, innovative ways to create materials that are entirely distinct from their parent characteristics for wastewater treatment and environmental challenges are proposed. Series of different molar ratio of Ag (0.01, 0.02, 0.03 and 0.04 wt%) were assigned to prepare Ag@CPAN composite and observe its impact application on photocatalytic degradation of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) assisted by peroxymonosulfate (PMS) under visible light irradiation. The morphology and composition of the synthesized Ag@CPAN was characterized using a range of techniques. Several parameters were investigated that could influence degradation efficiency, including PMS concentration, solution pH, catalyst dosage, and initial 4-NP concentration. Under visible light irradiation, Ag@CPAN shows excellent photocatalytic performance of 4-NP, methylene blue, methyl red and RhB degradation. Ag@CPAN elucidates excellent catalytic performance while maintaining high stability up to 6 successive cycles and this backwards to synergistically effect between CPAN and Ag. Furthermore, provides an easy way to prepare a variety of SAC, and it is easily scalable with significant potential in catalytic applications.