Evaluation of the TiO₂@SiO₂ Composite for the Removal of the Antibiotic Sulfamethoxazole in Aqueous Media Through Adsorption and Heterogeneous Photocatalysis Processes

Objective: To synthesize and characterize core@shell TiO₂@SiO₂ composites and test them for the removal of the antibiotic Sulfamethoxazole (SMX) from aqueous media by adsorption and heterogeneous photocatalysis processes. Methodology: The composites were synthesized using the sol-gel method and heat-treated at 100, 500, 800, and 1000 ºC. They were characterized using spectrometric techniques. The application in the adsorption and heterogeneous photocatalysis of SMX was carried out at different pHs (5, 7, and 9) in batches, with the percentage removed evaluated over time. Results and Discussion: The TiO₂500@SiO₂1000 composite showed the best performance, with SMX removal of up to 47% by heterogeneous photocatalysis in 30 min and 45% by adsorption in 24 h. Research Implications: The results support the development of more efficient and sustainable strategies for the removal of antibiotics from wastewater. The results highlight the potential of the TiO₂@SiO₂ composite for future research into wastewater decontamination, contributing to more efficient and sustainable treatments. Originality/Value: The study points to the viability of TiO₂@SiO₂ composites, highlighting the influence of different heat treatments on the material’s efficiency. Adsorption and photocatalysis using TiO₂@SiO₂ offer a promising approach for the advanced treatment of residual antibiotics in aqueous media.