Assessing the photocatalytic performance of ZIF-8/graphene towards levofloxacin

Manivel, Calvin Manasseh (2025) Assessing the photocatalytic performance of ZIF-8/graphene towards levofloxacin. [Project Paper] (Submitted)

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Abstract

This study successfully demonstrates the photocatalytic degradation of levofloxacin (LVX) using a ZIF-8/graphene (Gr) composite under simulated low-power UV light irradiation. The ZIF-8/Gr composite outperformed its individual components, achieving superior degradation efficiency by enhancing charge separation, increasing surface area, and improving the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The optimal degradation conditions were observed with 20 mg of catalyst applied to 5 mg/L of LVX at a neutral pH of 7.01, resulting in a 25.70% degradation rate after 120 minutes under low-intensity UV light. The primary ROS responsible for this degradation included hydroxyl radicals (•OH), superoxide radicals (•O₂⁻), and photogenerated holes (h⁺), which played crucial roles in the oxidative breakdown of LVX. A 20 mg catalyst dose offered the best balance, ensuring sufficient active sites without causing light scattering. Degradation followed pseudo-first-order (PFO) kinetics, with lower LVX concentrations leading to faster rates due to enhanced interaction with the catalyst. Neutral pH conditions were most favourable for ROS generation and efficient catalyst-pollutant interactions. Gr's role in improving electron transfer and minimizing electron-hole recombination was key to the composite's performance. In addition to its photocatalytic performance, the ZIF-8/Gr exhibited antibacterial activity, as evidenced by an ZOI against E. coli under dark conditions. These findings suggest that ZIF-8/Gr is a promising material for wastewater treatment, offering both pollutant degradation under low light and antibacterial properties in the absence of light. Overall, the ZIF-8/Gr composite presents a sustainable, energy-efficient solution for the degradation of pharmaceutical pollutants in wastewater, showing promise for large-scale applications.

Item Type:	Project Paper
Subjects:	Q Science > QD Chemistry
Faculty:	Faculty of Humanities, Management and Science
Depositing User:	Mr. Azman Mohamad
Date Deposited:	08 Dec 2025 08:00
Last Modified:	08 Dec 2025 08:00
URI:	http://psaspb.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/2647

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