High‐efficiency removal of <scp>Cr</scp> ( <scp>VI</scp> ) and rhodamine <scp>B</scp> in wastewater via nano‐zero‐valent iron reduction and <scp>Fenton</scp> reaction

Abstract BACKGROUND The treatment of industrial wastewater containing chromium (Cr(VI)) and rhodamine B (RhB) is a critical environmental protection issue. Fenton‐like systems have been widely considered for their potential in wastewater treatment, but developing efficient and practical Fenton‐like materials and methods remains a key challenge. This study focuses on exploring the effectiveness of a Fenton‐like system composed of a zero‐valent iron‐based composite material (HTCTSIP‐5) and exogenous hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) for the removal of Cr(VI) and RhB from wastewater. RESULTS The effects of various parameters, including dosing methods, pH levels, content of HTCTSIP‐5 and H₂O₂, and initial concentrations, on the removal efficiency were studied. Techniques such as electron paramagnetic resonance, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy were employed to investigate the underlying mechanisms of removal of Cr(VI) and RhB. The results revealed that the HTCTSIP‐5/H₂O₂ system exhibited high removal efficiencies for both Cr(VI) and RhB, with hydroxyl radicals ( • OH) identified as the key agents in RhB degradation. CONCLUSION This study confirms that the use of the HTCTSIP‐5/H₂O₂ Fenton‐like system is an effective approach for the treatment of wastewater containing Cr(VI) and RhB. It provided an effective material and method for industrial wastewater treatment, offering a valuable approach for environmental protection. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).