Self-powered Fenton-like process for propranolol degradation and bacterial inactivation with Mg-CuO/CeO2/BC composites

Spontaneous Fenton-like process holds great potential in the filed of water purification. In this study, the Mg-CuO/CeO2/BC composites were prepared for propranolol (PRO) degradation and E. coli inactivation under near neutral condition. Driven by Mg corrosion, oxygen is reduced to H2O2, which is subsequently catalyzed to hydroxyl radical by CuO and CeO2 on the surface of the biochar. PRO (10 μM) was completely degraded within 30 min and E. coli (5.7-log) was inactivated within 20 min due to the synergistic effect between CuO and CeO2. Ce facilitated the circulation of Cu2+/Cu+, thus improving the catalytic efficiency. The naphthyl ring of the PRO was destroyed and the toxicity of PRO was significantly reduced. In addition to cell structure, DNA degradation occurred, preventing E. coli reactivation. The influences of several common anions (including Cl⁻, SO42⁻, CO32⁻, and HPO4⁻) on PRO degradation and E. coli inactivation were also evaluated, demonstrating the practicality of the composites. Even after four cycles, the composite continued to effective water treatment. In conclusion, this study contributes to provide a new method for organic matter degradation and water disinfection.