Synthesis of MMT−CuFe2O4 Composite as a Peroxymonosulfate Activator for the Degradation of Reactive Black 5

Abstract Copper ferrite nanoparticles loaded on montmorillonite (MMT−CuFe 2 O 4 ) were prepared by co‐precipitation method and applied as catalyst for activation of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) in degradation of reactive black 5 (RB5). The maximum removal efficiency of RB5 completely depends on the operating parameters and the highest removal percentage was obtained at MMT−CuFe 2 O 4 dosage of 250 mg/L, PMS concentration of 4 mM, initial RB5 concentration of 50 mg/L and time of 15 min. The presence of anions such as Cl − , NO 3 − , HCO 3 − , and SO 4 2− showed a significant limitation in the degradation of RB5 in the MMT−CuFe 2 O 4 /PMS system. Trapping experiments showed that ⋅OH and SO 4 ⋅ − radicals were involved in the catalytic degradation of RB5, however ⋅OH is the major specie in the catalysis system. Consecutive cycles were considered for testing the reusability of MMT−CuFe 2 O 4 ; its results showed the stability of five consecutive cycles. The toxicity test was evaluated using Daphnia magna and the results illustrated a substantial drop in the toxicity of the solution treated. The significant reduction of TOC during RB5 degradation and the production of SO 4 2− , NH 4 + and NO 3 − confirm the proper progress of pollutant mineralization. The high catalytic performance of the catalyst in a short time compared to other removal systems emphasizes that MMT−CuFe 2 O 4 can be suggested as a promising catalyst for the degradation of RB5 from aqueous solutions.