Carbon Nanotube-Engineered Electron Transfer Pathways in NiFe-LDH for Enhanced Photocatalytic Ferrate Activation

Ferrate(VI) (Fe(VI)) is a powerful oxidant for wastewater treatment, but its use is hindered by electron transfer limitations. To address this, we designed a NiFe-layered double hydroxide-carbon nanotube (NiFe-LDH-CNT) hybrid photocatalyst. The design is based on the hypothesis that incorporating conductive CNTs can enhance interfacial charge-transfer capability, thereby promote Fe(VI) activation. Under visible light, this catalyst enhances Fe(VI) performance by facilitating the formation of reactive high-valent iron intermediates, accompanied by the generation of reactive oxygen species. Compared with pristine NiFe-LDH, the CNT-integrated composite exhibits improved charge separation and accelerated interfacial electron transport, resulting in enhanced pollutant degradation efficiency. In addition, the catalyst remains stable and effective over time, even in complex water environments. This approach offers a practical way to enhance Fe(VI)-based water treatment processes.