Removal of antibiotic tetracycline by metal-organic framework MIL-101(Cr) loaded nano zero-valent iron

Nano zero-valent iron (nZVI) is a highly reactive particle but easily to be aggregated. Porous materials support can improve the stability of nZVI. Materials of Institute Lavoisier Frameworks (MILs), a type of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), have enormous surface areas, ultrahigh porosity, and good water stability. The combination between MILs and nZVI can provide an intensively “capture & destroy” effect to micro-pollutants in water. In this study, a novel composite, nZVI modified MIL-101(Cr), was prepared, characterized, and applied for tetracycline (TC) adsorption and degradation. The surface morphology and micropore structure of nZVI/MIL-101(Cr) were characterized. The TC adsorption performance of the composite was investigated via various parameters, adsorption kinetics, isotherms, and thermodynamics. Results showed that the TC adsorption followed pseudo-second-order kinetic equation and the maximum adsorption quantity (qm) was 625.0 mg/g. The catalytic property of nZVI/MIL-101(Cr) was also investigated via heterogeneous Fenton-like process, and nZVI/MIL-101(Cr) showed 90% TC removal efficiency in a wide pH range. Moreover, nZVI/MIL-101(Cr) displayed good stability and reusability. The developed composite is a potential adsorbent and heterogeneous catalyst for antibiotics pollution control in water.