NH2-MIL-101(Fe)/N-CNDs as a visible light photocatalyst for degradation of fluoroquinolone antibiotics in water

A microwave-assisted-hydrothermal approach has been employed to synthesize NH2-MIL-101(Fe) - (Fe-MOF) in composition with the Nitrogen-doped Carbon Nanodots- (N-CNDs) as a visible light photocatalyst. The octahedral structure of Fe-MOF was confirmed via microscopic and X-ray powder diffraction analysis. The composite with 30 % N-CNDs exhibited the highest degradation efficiency of 97.9 % for Ciprofloxacin (CIP) under visible light irradiation. Also, it shows a higher photocurrent response than bare Fe-MOF material. Also, EIS analysis reveals a smaller arc for the composite material, which suggests higher charge transfer properties. Based on the transient photocurrent measurements and EIS analysis, it could be stated that the improved photocatalytic activity of Fe-MOF@30%N-CNDs composite is due to the enhanced charge transfer properties caused by the introduction of N-CNDs. The photoactivity studies were tested using the LC-MS technique.