Efficient mineralization of ciprofloxacin using a 3D CexZr1−xO2/RGO composite cathode

Abstract

In this work, 3D columnar Ce_xZr_1−xO₂/RGO composite electrodes are prepared based on a hydrothermal self-assembly method, which were used as cathodes to degrade ciprofloxacin (CIP) for the first time in an electro-Fenton system. The composite was fully characterized using TEM, XRD, BET, XPS, CV and EIS. Moreover, it can be found that the Ce_0.75Zr_0.25O₂/RGO composite electrode exhibited a superior degradation efficiency for CIP, compared with the CeO₂/RGO electrode. The enhanced degradation efficiency originates from synergistic effects of the electrosorption of 3D RGO, Ce_0.75Zr_0.25O₂ electrocatalysis and powerful oxidation of hydroxyl radicals (˙OH). CIP was completely degraded within 5 h and the TOC removal efficiency reached 96.38%. The Ce_0.75Zr_0.25O₂/RGO composite cathode is a prospective candidate for degradation of CIP in an electro-Fenton system.