Efficient removal of tetracycline from aqueous media using a novel Zr-MOF/CuCo2O4 nanocomposite: synthesis, characterization, and mechanistic insights

In this research, a new Zr-MOF/CuCo2O4 nanocomposite was successfully synthesized and evaluated for the efficient removal of tetracycline (TC) from aqueous solutions. The composite displayed significant adsorption capacity, fast kinetics, and outstanding reusability. Analytical techniques including FT-IR, XRD, FE-SEM, BET, TGA, DSC, NMR and zeta potential confirmed the formation and stability of the nanocomposite. Optimization of the removal conditions was performed using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) with a Central Composite Design (CCD), achieving > 99% TC removal under optimum conditions (pH 7.80, 17.50 mgL⁻1 TC solution, 7.0 mg adsorbent, 46 min). Thermodynamic studies indicated a spontaneous and endothermic process, while Kinetic analysis indicated that the adsorption process followed a pseudo-second-order model. The nanocomposite maintained high stability and efficiency over seven reuse cycles. Real-sample analysis using seawater and pharmaceutical wastewater confirmed its strong potential for practical environmental applications. These findings highlight Zr-MOF/CuCo2O4 as a promising adsorbent for removing antibiotics from contaminated water, contributing to sustainable water purification and pollution control.