Copper ferrite–graphene oxide catalyst for enhanced peroxymonosulfate activation and pollutant degradation

Abstract

In this study, a magnetic nanocomposite of copper ferrite (CuFe₂O₄) supported on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) was synthesized via a solvothermal method and applied as a catalyst for the activation of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) to degrade Orange G (OG) dye in aqueous solution. The structure and morphology of the catalyst were thoroughly characterized using XRD, FTIR, SEM, STEM, and nitrogen adsorption–desorption analyses. The rGO/CuFe₂O₄ composite demonstrated superior catalytic performance, achieving 90.8% OG removal within 60 minutes, attributed to its enhanced surface area, efficient radical generation, and strong interaction between rGO and CuFe₂O₄. The system exhibited high activity across a wide pH range, significant mineralization (78% TOC removal), and good recyclability over four cycles. The catalyst also effectively degraded other dyes including rhodamine B (78%), methylene blue (86%), and methyl orange (89%) under similar conditions. These findings suggest that rGO/CuFe₂O₄ is a promising, reusable catalyst for advanced oxidation processes in wastewater treatment.