ISSN print edition: 0366-6352 ISSN electronic edition: 1336-9075 Registr. No.: MK SR 9/7 Published monthly

Catalytic phenol degradation by iron(III) metal–organic framework: maximizing efficiency with minimum oxidizing reagent

Pranshi Verma, Neeraj Kumar, and Archana Thakur

Chemistry Department, Chandigarh University, Mohali, India

E-mail: archana.e9358@cumail.in

Received: 30 August 2024  Accepted: 25 April 2025

Abstract:

This research reports solvothermal synthesis of iron(III) metal–organic framework (Fe-MOF) using ferric chloride hexahydrate and phloroglucinol ligand. The synthesized Fe-MOF was characterized using FTIR, powder X-ray diffraction, field emission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. The catalytic potential of synthesized Fe-MOF was evaluated through degradation of a major industrial pollutant phenol. Fe-MOF displayed optimal catalytic activity at lower concentration of hydrogen peroxide (5 mmol), lower Fe-MOF concentration, at 45-degree temperature and in 4 pH conditions. Phenol degradation efficiency was found to be comparatively higher than other conditions of Fe-MOF, H₂O₂ concentrations and temperature/pH conditions and good recyclability up to four cycles. The minimal use of hydrogen peroxide in the phenol degradation studies highlights efficiency and effectiveness of Fe-MOF as catalyst. The results demonstrate highly active, cost-effective, Fe-MOF catalyst for phenol degradation which can be utilized at industrial level.

Graphical abstract

Keywords: Catalyst Synthesis; Catalytic Materials; Catalytic Mechanism; Materials for Energy and Catalysis; Metal-organic Frameworks; Photocatalysis; Iron(III) metal–organic frameworks; Phloroglucinol ligand; Phenol degradation; Catalytic activity

Full paper is available at www.springerlink.com.

DOI: 10.1007/s11696-025-04095-4

Chemical Papers 79 (7) 4721–4733 (2025)