Abstract
The aim of this work was to prepare ZSM-5 zeolite-supported iron oxide nanoparticles for use as a catalyst in the degradation of an organic pollutant in aqueous solution through the photo-Fenton process. ZSM-5 zeolite was prepared using nucleation gel to induce the formation of MFI-type structure. Iron oxide nanoparticles were supported on the zeolite by incipient wetness impregnation technique. Moreover, iron oxide nanoparticles were prepared for comparison purposes of the catalytic activities in photo-Fenton reaction. The produced materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and analysis of nitrogen adsorption-desorption isotherms. The results revealed the formation of Fe2O3/ZSM-5 system containing intrinsic properties that resulted in a satisfactory catalytic activity, higher than the iron oxide. In addition, the system presented excellent activity and stability after three reuse cycles. The Fe2O3/ZSM-5 system prepared in this work is a promising catalyst for use in photo-Fenton reaction for the degradation of organic pollutants in aqueous solutions.
Keywords:
synthesis; ZSM-5; Fe2O3; Fe2O3/ZSM-5; photo-Fenton
