Photodegradation of Tetracycline by a Magnetic Graphene-Based Composite: CuO/GO/Fe۳O۴

Water pollution due to pharmaceutical contaminants, such as tetracycline, has become a serious environmental issue. Herein, a new magnetic nanocomposite (CuO/GO/Fe۳O۴) was prepared for efficient photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline under visible light irradiation. Graphene oxide provides enhanced pollutant adsorption through its large surface area and functional groups, while CuO enhances light absorption and photocatalytic activity. The addition of Fe۳O۴ enables easy recovery of the catalyst using an external magnetic field. Photocatalytic experiments revealed an optimal degradation efficiency of ۸۷% at pH ۴, with strong performance under neutral and basic conditions as well. This cost-effective and reusable catalyst provides a sustainable approach for removing pharmaceutical pollutants from wastewater, supporting environmental safety and water management efforts.

Keywords:

Photocatalysis , Fe۳O۴ , CuO , Graphene oxide , Tetracycline degradation , Magnetic adsorption