Piezoelectric-Driven Fenton System Based on Bismuth Ferrite Nanosheets for Removal of N-Acetyl-para-aminophenol in Aqueous Environments

Emerging pollutants, such as N-acetyl-para-aminophenol, pose significant challenges to environmental sustainability, and Bi2Fe2O2 (BFO) nanomaterials are an emerging class of piezoelectric materials. This study presents a novel piezoelectric-driven Fenton system based on Bi2Fe4O9 nanosheets for the efficient degradation of organic pollutants. BFO nanosheets with varying thicknesses were synthesized, and their piezoelectric properties were confirmed through piezoresponse force microscopy and heavy metal ion reduction experiments. The piezoelectric electrons generated within the BFO nanosheets facilitate the in situ production of hydrogen peroxide, which in turn drives the Fenton-like reaction. Furthermore, the piezoelectric electrons enhance the redox cycling of iron in the Fenton process, boosting the overall catalytic efficiency. The energy band structure of BFO nanosheets is well-suited for this process, enabling efficient hydrogen peroxide generation and promoting Fe3+ reduction. The findings demonstrate that thinner BFO nanosheets exhibit superior piezoelectric activity, leading to enhanced catalytic performance. Additionally, the incorporation of gold nanodots onto BFO nanosheets further boosts their piezocatalytic efficiency, particularly in the reduction of Cr (VI). The system exhibited robust oxidative capacity, stability, and recyclability, with reactive oxygen species (ROS) verified via electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy. Overall, BFO nanosheets, with their optimal energy band structure, self-supplied hydrogen peroxide, and enhanced Fe3+ reduction, represent a promising, sustainable solution for advanced oxidation processes in wastewater treatment and other applications.