Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Zijun Yong, Tianyi Ma
Summary: This article provides a systematic overview of the advances and challenges of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) in photocatalytic H2O2 production and offers perspectives and outlooks for future developments in this field.
ANGEWANDTE CHEMIE-INTERNATIONAL EDITION
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Yu-Xin Ye, Jinhui Pan, Yong Shen, Minhui Shen, Huijie Yan, Jian He, Xin Yang, Fang Zhu, Jianqiao Xu, Jianguo He, Gangfeng Ouyang
Summary: By mimicking the NADP-mediated photosynthetic processes in green plants, the current study has achieved progress in improving charge carrier separation efficiency and oxygen reduction efficiency, realizing efficient conversion of water and oxygen into hydrogen peroxide. The solar-to-chemical conversion efficiency in this artificial photosynthesis is significantly higher than that in nature, providing a strategy for efficient solar-to-chemical conversion in the future.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
(2021)
Review
Chemistry, Physical
Songying Qu, Hao Wu, Yun Hau Ng
Summary: Hydrogen peroxide is a crucial chemical attracting attention for energy and environmental applications. The environmentally friendly solar-driven production of hydrogen peroxide, which only requires water, oxygen, and light energy, has gained the most attention. The rational design of functional photo-responsive catalysts promotes hydrogen peroxide production in photo(electro)catalytic approaches. This review systematically summarizes strategies for these catalysts and discusses prevailing hypotheses, state-of-the-art catalysts, critical challenges, and perspectives to enhance comprehension and promote interest in sustainable hydrogen peroxide production.
ADVANCED ENERGY MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Minghui Sun, Xiaoguang Wang, Honghui Pan, Zhihui Pang, Yanrong Zhang
Summary: This study demonstrates that oxygen vacancy-rich BiVO4 can efficiently generate H2O2 under visible light irradiation without any heterojunctions or precious-metal cocatalysts. Oxygen vacancies facilitate O-2 adsorption and chemisorption, leading to increased H2O2 production.
JOURNAL OF COLLOID AND INTERFACE SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Huijie Yan, Minhui Shen, Yong Shen, Xu-Dong Wang, Wei Lin, Jinhui Pan, Jian He, Yu-Xin Ye, Xin Yang, Fang Zhu, Jianqiao Xu, Jianguo He, Gangfeng Ouyang
Summary: Researchers have achieved photosynthesis of hydrogen peroxide in real ambient conditions using a conjugated polymeric photocatalyst, with remarkably high efficiency. This efficient photosynthesis allows for solar-to-chemical conversion in a cost-effective and sustainable way, representing an important step towards real applications.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Wei Liu, Run Xu, Weifeng Pan, Chao Li, Niu Huang, Yingping Huang, Liqun Ye
Summary: In this study, resorcinol formaldehyde (RF) was introduced for photothermal catalytic generation of H2O2, achieving a photosynthetic yield of approximately 2000 mu m within 40 min under solar irradiation. The solar-to-chemical conversion (SCC) efficiency reached up to 0.19% at 338 K, surpassing photocatalysis with a cooling system by a factor of about 2.5. The H2O2 generated by RF during the photothermal process was formed through a two-channel pathway, promoting overall H2O2 formation and enabling its usage for pollutant removal. This work provides a sustainable and economical route for efficient H2O2 synthesis.
Review
Chemistry, Physical
Zhongxiao Li, Shi Fang, Haiding Sun, Ren-Jei Chung, Xiaosheng Fang, Jr-Hau He
Summary: Hydrogen, a zero-pollution, sustainable, low-cost, and high-efficiency energy source, has great potential for the 21st century. Solar water-splitting techniques, such as photovoltaic-electrolysis (PV-EC) and photoelectrochemistry (PEC), have shown promise with solar-to-hydrogen conversion efficiency over 10%. However, there is a gap between laboratory research and practical application, which can be addressed by understanding the basic principles, historical developments, and performing comprehensive techno-economic analysis.
ADVANCED ENERGY MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Yuanzhu Zhao, Lina Wang, Richard Malpass-Evans, Neil B. McKeown, Mariolino Carta, John P. Lowe, Catherine L. Lyall, Remi Castaing, Philip J. Fletcher, Gabriele Kociok-Kohn, Jannis Wenk, Zhenyu Guo, Frank Marken
Summary: In this study, graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) was embedded into a polymer host to create recoverable photocatalysts with enhanced hydrogen peroxide production.
ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Baekha Ryu, Kien Tiek Wong, Choe Earn Choong, Jung-Rae Kim, Hyunook Kim, Sang-Hyoun Kim, Byong-Hun Jeon, Yeomin Yoon, Shane A. Snyder, Min Jang
Summary: Despite extensive studies, the synergistic mechanisms between sonolysis and photocatalysis for the removal of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) remain uncertain. This study provides a proof-of-concept for the role of photoexcited electrons in splitting sonolysis-induced hydrogen peroxide into hydroxyl radicals, particularly in the bulk phase. The synergistic degradation of hydrophobic POPs in a sonophotocatalytic system varies compared to hydrophilic POPs, with different degradation patterns observed in the gas-liquid interface and bulk liquid phase.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Zhi-An Lan, Meng Wu, Zhongpu Fang, Xu Chi, Xiong Chen, Yongfan Zhang, Xinchen Wang
Summary: By studying the impact of different linking patterns on charge generation and separation in polymeric photocatalysts, it was found that the double-stranded linking pattern enhances donor-acceptor interactions, generates a coplanar structure, facilitates charge generation and separation, and enables red-shifted light absorption.
ANGEWANDTE CHEMIE-INTERNATIONAL EDITION
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Composites
Yong Zheng, Tao Gao, Shan Chen, Calum T. J. Ferguson, Kai A. I. Zhang, Fan Fang, Yi Shen, Niaz Ali Khan, Long Wang, Liqun Ye
Summary: This study presents a novel approach for photocatalytic hydrogen peroxide production using porous CsPbBr3 quantum dots-decorated CTFs nanocomposites. The nanocomposites exhibit significantly enhanced photocatalytic activity and achieve high solar-to-chemical conversion efficiency. This work opens up new avenues for utilizing halide perovskite quantum dots and CTFs in various photocatalytic reactions.
COMPOSITES COMMUNICATIONS
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Yaxi Tian, Yan Gao, Qiongqiong Wang, Zhaojin Wang, Rongfeng Guan, Wenyan Shi
Summary: A novel method for constructing porous ultrathin g-C3N4 nanosheets is proposed, which enhances hydrogen production efficiency and antibiotic degradation rate by providing a large surface area and porous structure to the photocatalyst.
JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMICAL ENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Zhenchun Yang, Lina Li, Jiahao Cui, Siting Shao, Shiqi Zeng, Kun Wang, Dongge Ma, Chun Hu, Yubao Zhao
Summary: Solar-driven selective oxygen reduction reaction on polymeric carbon nitride framework is a promising approach for sustainable H2O2 production. The introduction of NH4Cl into the eutectic KCl-LiCl salt mixture enhances the photocatalytic performance of PHI framework, leading to a record high H2O2 photo-production rate. The mechanistic investigation reveals the critical role of superoxide radicals and singlet oxygen in the formation of H2O2.
CHEMISTRY-A EUROPEAN JOURNAL
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Yimin Zhang, Jingkun Lou, Leliang Wu, Minghua Nie, Caixia Yan, Mingjun Ding, Peng Wang, Hua Zhang
Summary: The study showed that the activation of H2O2 with minute Cu2+ and HCO3- could efficiently degrade organic pollutants, with acetaminophen completely eliminated within 10 minutes and the generated ROS facilitating organic degradation. Additionally, the presence of Cu3+ was deduced, and CuCO3 (aq) was identified as the main complex for ROS and Cu3+ formation, contributing to the removal of organic pollutants.
ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Yu Yao, Huayang Zhang, Kunsheng Hu, Gang Nie, Yangyang Yang, Yuxian Wang, Xiaoguang Duan, Shaobin Wang
Summary: Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) have unique physicochemical properties and find extensive applications in sensing, biomedical, optoelectronic and catalysis fields. As photocatalysts, CQDs show promising potential in energy and environmental applications, such as wastewater treatment and solar energy conversion. This comprehensive review provides new insights and inspiration in the synthesis, improvement, and photocatalytic applications of CQDs.
JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMICAL ENGINEERING
(2022)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Alexander John, Adam Brookes, Irene Carra, Bruce Jefferson, Peter Jarvis
Summary: This review compares the use of microbubbles with conventional bubbles in the ozonation process. Microbubbles have a larger interfacial area and lower rise velocity, allowing for more efficient transfer of ozone into the liquid phase. Microbubbles have shown to oxidize organic compounds more quickly and enhance mass transfer. However, fair and consistent experimental comparisons between microbubbles and conventional bubbles are needed.
CRITICAL REVIEWS IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Lucie Pidoux, Holly Shorney-Darby, Elisabeth Vaudevire, Bram Martijn, Peter Jarvis, Irene Carra
Summary: Reducing regeneration frequency allows for the reuse of ion exchange resin and reduces the generation of brine and waste. The study suggests that both electrostatic interactions and admicelle formation are separation mechanisms. However, repeated use of the resin leads to changes in resin loading and increased risk of corrosion. Reusing the bicarbonate-form resin every 5 cycles achieves the most sustainable option.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Alexander John, Irene Carra, Bruce Jefferson, Monika Jodkowska, Adam Brookes, Peter Jarvis
Summary: The application of microbubbles in water treatment has shown to enhance gas-liquid contacting processes and compound removal compared to conventional bubbling techniques. However, this study found that there was no significant difference in hydroxyl radical generation between microbubble and conventional bubble ozonation systems.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2022)
Article
Computer Science, Interdisciplinary Applications
Ana Sanchez Zurano, Jose Maria Fernandez Sevilla, Ana Belen Esteban Garcia, Maria Guadalupe Pinna-Hernandez, Jose Luis Casas Lopez
Summary: This study describes the creation of a virtual laboratory using the Easy JavaScript Simulation platform. It focuses on the simulation of experiments in science, biotechnology, and engineering. A web-based simulation of an enzymatic stirred-tank bioreactor has been developed, allowing students to practice using practical scripts.
COMPUTER APPLICATIONS IN ENGINEERING EDUCATION
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
P. Jarvis, I. Carra, M. Jafari, S. J. Judd
Summary: This paper evaluates the technical, practical, and economic merits of ceramic membranes and polymeric membranes in producing drinking water from surface water sources. It found that ceramic membranes have advantages in terms of economic efficiency and durability.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
D. Rodriguez-Garcia, P. Soriano-Molina, J. L. Guzman Sanchez, J. L. Garcia Sanchez, J. L. Casas Lopez, J. A. Sanchez Perez
Summary: This research presents a control approach for the solar photo-Fenton process in raceway pond reactors designed for micropollutant removal from secondary effluents. The simulation study demonstrates the feasibility of the control system under different operating conditions. The results show the influence of control setpoints on process efficiency and highlight the need for optimized and controlled operation to improve cost efficiency and competitiveness.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Alejandro Cabrera-Reina, Marina Aliste, Maria Inmaculada Polo-Lopez, Sixto Malato, Isabel Oller
Summary: This study focuses on understanding the interactions between a complex water matrix and the process of removing a mixture of microcontaminants (acetamiprid, carbamazepine, and caffeine) using the solar/Fe3+-EDDS/persulfate process. The effects of sulfates, nitrates, bicarbonates, and chlorides on the process were assessed in different synthetic and actual water samples. The results showed that bicarbonates and chlorides have a significant impact on the efficiency of microcontaminant removal in complex water matrices, while dissolved organic matter had a negative effect on removal efficiency depending on its concentration and composition.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Victoria Duarte-Alvarado, Lucas Santos-Juanes, Antonio Arques, Ana Maria Amat
Summary: The degradation of various preservatives in the cosmetics industry was investigated using a mild photo-Fenton process. The presence of iron chelators improved the degradation process, but the complexing effect of humic-like substances was found to be ineffective in the case of methylisothiazolinone (MIT). The inhibitory effect of MIT on the degradation of parabens was observed, suggesting the formation of a complex between iron and MIT. The findings highlight the importance of using mixtures of model contaminants in future studies to understand the behavior of the whole system.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Ruben Lopez-Timoner, Margarita Mora, Elena Zuriaga, Javier Climent, Lucas Santos-Juanes, Ana M. Amat, Antonio Arques
Summary: The aim of this study is to investigate the enhancement of UVC-based tertiary treatments. Real wastewater treatment plant effluent was spiked with acetaminophen as a model pollutant. UVC irradiation showed some photodegradation of acetaminophen, which was further enhanced by hydrogen peroxide, but excessive amounts of the oxidizing agent did not accelerate the process significantly.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
George V. Theodorakopoulos, Michalis K. Arfanis, Jose Antonio Sanchez Perez, Ana Aguera, Flor Ximena Cadena Aponte, Emilia Markellou, George Em. Romanos, Polycarpos Falaras
Summary: Nowadays, the increased agro-industrial activities have led to a potential worldwide risk for the environment as traditional wastewater treatment plants are unable to eliminate recalcitrant organic contaminants. An innovative hybrid photocatalytic nanofiltration reactor (PNFR) prototype has emerged as a promising solution by combining photocatalytic degradation with size exclusion capacity. The PNFR unit exhibits encouraging removal efficiencies against pesticides and allows for the recycling of real agro-wastewater.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Ivan Valles, Ivan Sciscenko, Margarita Mora, Pau Mico, Ana M. Amat, Lucas Santos-Juanes, Javier Moreno-Andres, Antonio Arques
Summary: In this study, the effect of Fe(III) complexation by phenolic derivatives on photo-Fenton was systematically investigated. Solutions containing a mixture of six pollutants were treated by solar simulated photo-Fenton under specific conditions. It was found that the efficiency of ligands increased with the presence of -OH groups, but decreased with the presence of -COOH and -OCH3 groups, which was correlated with the ability of ligands to reduce Fe(III) to Fe(II).
APPLIED CATALYSIS B-ENVIRONMENTAL
(2023)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Gulnara Maniakova, Maria Inmaculada Polo Lopez, Isabel Oller, Sixto Malato, Luigi Rizzo
Summary: Solar driven advanced oxidation processes (S-AOPs) have been successfully studied as tertiary and quaternary treatment of urban wastewater. However, their application has been hindered by the lack of comparison data with consolidated technologies and evaluation of environmental impact. This study compared the environmental impact of a new S-AOP called sequential treatment (ST) with sunlight/H2O2 and solar photo-Fenton (SPF) to pilot scale ozonation (O-3) treatment through Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). The results showed that ST had a better overall environmental performance compared to O-3, making it a more sustainable solution for small urban wastewater treatment plants.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
E. Gualda-Alonso, N. Pichel, P. Soriano-Molina, E. Olivares-Ligero, F. X. Cadena-Aponte, A. Aguera, J. A. Sanchez Perez, J. L. Casas Lopez
Summary: A continuous flow solar photo-Fenton demonstration plant was assessed for wastewater reclamation, achieving efficient treatment and removal of contaminants under different operating conditions, demonstrating the potential for commercial-scale application.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Ruben Lopez-Timoner, Victoria Duarte-Alvarado, Maria Angeles Castillo, Lucas Santos-Juanes, Antonio Arques, Ana Maria Amat
Summary: This study investigates the simultaneous degradation of preservatives such as parabens and methylisothiazolinone. The results show that UV light is inefficient in degrading parabens but efficiently degrades MIT. Ozone treatments rapidly degrade the paraben mixture, especially at basic pH. The simultaneous treatment with ozone and UV light is the fastest method for eliminating both parabens and MIT. However, when treating joint mixtures of parabens and MIT, behaviors change notably, particularly for processes involving UV light due to the interfering effect of MIT.
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Alexander John, Irene Carra, Bruce Jefferson, Lucie Bertolaso, Adam Brookes, Peter Jarvis
Summary: Microbubble technology shows promise in improving gas-liquid contacting processes, particularly in ozonation. Microbubbles enhance mass transfer, dissolved ozone residual, and compound removal. The improvement is attributed to an increase in specific interfacial area and a decrease in the mass transfer coefficient. No enhancement in hydroxyl radical production, bromate formation, or impact from background constituents was observed.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING SCIENCE
(2024)
