Photocatalytic removal of ciprofloxacin using synthesized of C/Fe-BiVO4/Bi2WO6 photocatalysts: Optimization and modeling of process by RSM and ANN

A novel heterogeneous photocatalyst based on a combination of C/Fe, BiVO 4 , and Bi 2 WO 6 , exhibiting characteristics of a Fenton-like catalyst, was synthesized using a two-step process involving the carbonization of the resin followed by a hydrothermal treatment. Comprehensive analysis revealed that the increased dispersion of C/Fe-BiVO 4 /Bi 2 WO 6 particles and the expanded BET surface area of the C/Fe-BiVO 4 /Bi 2 WO 6 catalyst enhanced its catalytic efficiency in breaking down ciprofloxacin (CIP) compared to C/Fe-BiVO 4 and C/Fe-Bi 2 WO 6 . Two efficient methods, namely response surface methodology (RSM) and artificial neural networks (ANNs), were engaged to design and refine the photocatalytic process. Under optimal RSM conditions (10 mg·L −1 CIP, 0.75 g·L −1 catalyst, H 2 O 2 dose, 200 mg·L −1 at pH=5.0 within 30 min), CIP's elimination efficiency reached 94.92 %. Based on the ANN analysis, the relative importance of process-influencing parameters was: pH (82.3 %), H 2 O 2 concentration (6.8 %), C/Fe-BiVO 4 /Bi 2 WO 6 catalyst dosage (7.5 %), and CIP initial concentration (3.4 %). The C/Fe-BiVO 4 /Bi 2 WO 6 demonstrated remarkable reusability and robust stability through its recycling degradation process. Additionally, the study focused on the photocatalytic breakdown process and the by-products of ciprofloxacin degradation. The results indicated that the·OH and·O 2 - are play a significant role in the photocatalytic oxidation of CIP. Eight distinct products were identified as degradation products.