Degradation of 4-Chlorophenol by Polythiophene-Incorporated MXenes: Insights into Its Mechanism and Influencing Parameters

A nanocomposite of MXene and polythiophene (MPTh) was synthesized and characterized for their application in the degradation of the priority phenolic pollutant, 4-chlorophenol (4-CP). The synthesized nanocomposite exhibited superior performance for the degradation of 4-CP, achieving a degradation efficiency approximately four times greater than that of the pristine components. The MXene sheets were delaminated into flake-like structures upon incorporation of polythiophene nanoparticles, facilitated by vigorous stirring in chloroform. This process effectively reduced agglomeration, thereby providing more active sites and increasing the specific surface area available for contaminant sorption. The degradation mechanism and formation of reactive radicals were investigated through scavenger studies and further confirmed by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) analysis. Intermediate products were identified by using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LCMS). The proposed mechanism suggests that the enhanced degradation is attributed to the excellent electrical conductivity of MXene and the intimate interfacial interaction between the components, which together promote efficient electron migration. Mineralization and toxicity reduction of 4-CP-treated water using MPTh nanocomposite were evaluated by measuring the initial and final chemical oxygen demand (COD) values. A significant reduction in the COD values (∼87.5%) was observed, indicating effective mineralization of the pollutant. This study provides valuable insights and offers a promising strategy for researchers who focus on the removal of organic contaminants from wastewater.