The Magnetic Catalyst CoFe2O4/CoFe@BC Derived from Loofah Exhibits High Efficiency in Degrading Levofloxacin

Graphical This study focuses on the preparation of a magnetic catalyst with a composite structure, achieved through a series of pretreatments and calcination using bimetallic ions in a nitrogen atmosphere. The findings indicate that the magnetic catalyst not only exhibits remarkable reusability but also effectively degrades levofloxacin via multiple mechanisms. Antibiotics, Biomass, Heterogeneous catalysis. To mitigate pollution caused by levofloxacin (LVF) in aquatic environments, a magnetic catalyst, CoFe 2 O 4 /CoFe@BC (CF@BC), was synthesized using loofah-derived biochar (BC) as a support, through coprecipitation followed by calcination at high temperatures. CF@BC was utilized for the degradation of LVF in aqueous solutions containing peroxymonosulfate (PMS), requiring no additional energy input. CF@BC demonstrates exceptional catalytic performance, even under acidic conditions, achieving a degradation rate of 98% within 4 min. Compared to pure CoFe 2 O 4 nanoparticles (CF), CF@BC exhibits smaller particle sizes and improved dispersion properties, enhancing the exposure of reactive sites. The degradability of the CF@BC/PMS system is nearly three times greater than that of the CF/PMS system under identical conditions. Furthermore, the CF@BC/PMS system demonstrated effective degradation of LVF across a wide initial pH range (3 to 9) and maintained high degradation efficiency after three cycles. Both Co(II)/Co(III) and Fe(III)/Fe(II) are involved in the activation process of PMS, with SO₄ •− and 1 O₂ being the predominant species contributing to degradation. Additionally, two pathways for the degradation of LVF have been proposed. The CF@BC/PMS system developed in this study can be effectively applied to remediate water contaminated by LVF.