Development of a worm-hole structured CuZnO₂/MSU Photocatalyst for Enhanced Antibiotic Degradation

In this study, a CuZnO2/MSU photocatalyst was developed using a simple method and common resources. Characterization through XRD, BET, EDX, TEM, and SEM techniques revealed its worm-hole structure and uniform CuZnO2 distribution. The catalyst exhibited a reduced band gap of 2.4 eV and a substantial surface area of 307 m²/g, facilitating 94% degradation of Ciprofloxacin (CIP) within 4 hours of light exposure. Further investigation into the photodegradation process showed that a minimal catalyst quantity (10mg) and H2O2 oxidant led to 95% CIP transformation from a 30 ppm concentration, surpassing typical wastewater levels. Optimal efficiency was achieved with a 50/50 Cu2+/Zn2+ ratio, indicating a synergistic effect. These results underscore the CuZnO2/MSU catalyst’s potential for antibiotic remediation in water.