Construction of Co-Based MOF Loaded with Carboxymethyl Cellulose for the Photocatalytic Degradation of Brilliant Blue and Estimating the Toxicity of the Byproducts

Abstract

The deterioration of water quality due to human activities remains an inevitable challenge. In this study, we have developed a photocatalytic membrane by integrating carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) with a cobalt-based metal–organic Framework (Co-MOF). The synthesized materials were thoroughly characterized using advanced analytical techniques, confirming the successful incorporation of CMC with Co-MOF. The photocatalytic efficiency of the fabricated membrane was evaluated for the degradation of brilliant blue dye, achieving an impressive removal rate of approximately 91% under visible light illumination. The degradation experiments were systematically conducted under varying operational conditions, including the pH, initial dye concentration, and catalyst dosage. The degradation and mineralization of the brilliant blue dye were confirmed using UV–vis spectroscopy, LC–MS analysis, and total organic carbon (TOC) measurements. Furthermore, a comprehensive assessment of the toxicity of the degradation byproducts was performed to evaluate their environmental impact.