Efficient debromination of Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) by Au/Fe@biocarbon derived from bioreduction precious metals

The utilization of nano zero valent iron is recognized as a potential approach for debromination of Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA). In this study, Pycnoporus sanguineus cells were employed for biosupported Au nano particles (bio-AuNPs) preparation, then calcinated for obtaining porous carbon doped with Au nano particles (Au@biocarbon) and generated Au@biocarbon supported zero-valent iron nanoparticles (Au/Fe@biocarbon). The role of Au/Fe@biocarbon during debromination was evaluated by comparing with Au@biocarbon, biocarbon and Fe@biocarbon. Results showed that Fe-0 and Au-0 are successfully loaded on the surface of porous biocarbon with well-dispersion and higher specific surface area. The removal and debromination efficiency of TBBPA driven by Au/Fe@biocarbon was up to about 99.85% and 97.18% within 100 min, respectively. Higher dosage and acidic condition were more beneficial to removal of TBBPA with the most appropriated Au/Fe molar ratio of 2%, where the complete removal of TBBPA only took 20 min. The mechanism of TBBPA debromination by Au/Fe@biocarbon was the joint function of adsorption of biocarbon and galvanic cell of biosupported Au/Fe bimetals. Therefore, Au/Fe@biocarbon could be an alternative to effectively boost rapid and complete debromination of TBBPA.