Volume 13, Issue 4 (3-2026)                   J Environ Health Eng 2026, 13(4): 437-464 | Back to browse issues page

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Zarezadeh E, Roudbari A, Darvishmotevalli M, Noorisepehr M. Investigation of Photocatalytic Degradation of Tetracycline in Aqueous Solutions using Persulfate / SnO₂/Zn Nanoparticles Proces. J Environ Health Eng 2026; 13 (4) :437-464
URL: http://jehe.abzums.ac.ir/article-1-1145-en.html
1- Health, Safety, and Environment Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran & Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
2- Department of Health Education, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
3- Health, Safety, and Environment Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran & Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran , dr.noorisepehr@gmail.com
Abstract:   (23 Views)
Background: In line with the development of green chemistry in wastewater treatment, it is important to investigate effective photocatalysts with reusability and easy separation from wastewater for the removal of tetracycline (TC). SnO2-Zn nanoparticles are known for their low cost, low toxicity, and high stability in removing organic pollutants. For TC degradation, an advanced oxidation process based on sulfate radicals (SO₄•⁻) has been developed due to its high oxidation potential, stability, suitable solubility in water, room temperature operation, and low cost.
Materials and Methods: The SnO2-Zn nanocatalyst was synthesized via the co-precipitation method and used alongside UV radiation to activate persulfate. The structure of the nanocatalyst and its mesopores were examined using TEM, SEM, XRD, FTIR, and BET analyses, which confirmed the well-formed mesoporous structure and optimal synthesis of the nanocatalyst in terms of morphology, pore size, surface functional groups, specific surface area, and textural and physical properties.
Results: Investigations showed complete removal of TC by the SnO2-Zn/PS/UV processunder optimal conditions, including pH = 9, TC concentration = 15 mg/L, catalyst dose = 0.125 g/L, persulfate concentration = 4 mM, and UV irradiation time = 60 min. The radicals SO₄•⁻, OH•, and H⁺ were the primary species in the photocatalytic degradation, and the mineralization rate reached 81.2%. After five reuse cycles, the efficiency remained above97.44%.
Conclusion: These results indicate the high recoverability of the nanocatalyst. The proposed method demonstrates high efficiency in removing emerging compounds and pollutants from wastewater.
Full-Text [PDF 3769 kb]   (13 Downloads)    
Type of Study: Research | Subject: Special
Received: 2025/11/30 | Accepted: 2026/02/7 | Published: 2026/03/18

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