Catalytic activity of CoFe2O4@AC nanoparticles for ciprofloxacin degradation: process feasibility, mechanism and pathway

This study investigates the efficient removal of the antibiotic ciprofloxacin (CPFX) from aquatic environments using a synthesized magnetic nanocomposite, CoFe₂O₄@AC (cobalt ferrite supported on activated carbon), via a sono-Fenton-like process. Characterization via XRD, SEM, TEM, VSM, and BET confirmed that the catalyst possesses a mesoporous, spherical morphology, a high surface area )453.6 m²/g(, and strong ferromagnetic properties, facilitating easy recovery. Optimization of operational parameters revealed a maximum CPFX removal efficiency of 97.5% within 60 min at pH 4, 0.08 g/L catalyst, 3 mM H₂O₂, and 5 mg/L CPFX. Radical scavenger tests identified hydroxyl radicals ( • OH) as the primary reactive species. Although the presence of Cl⁻ and HCO₃⁻ anions slightly inhibited the degradation, the catalyst maintained a functional reusability of 69.3% after four cycles. Overall, the CoFe₂O₄@AC nanocomposite proves to be a highly effective and magnetically separable sonocatalyst for antibiotic wastewater treatment.