Significantly enhanced activation of peroxymonosulfate by a graphene-supported BiFeO3 composites for highly efficient degradation of tetracycline hydrochloride

To enhance active site of BiFeO3, graphene is employed to support BiFeO3 for promoting degradation of tetracycline. Herein, graphene-supported BiFeO3 composites are prepared via a facile two-step hydrothermal process and their ultrasound assisted activation of peroxymonosulfate is investigated. Benefiting from graphene loading, the specific surface area of composite with 2% graphene is about twice that of pure BiFeO3, leading to a high Fe2+ level. The high Fe2+ level promotes ultrasound assisted activation of peroxymonosulfate for effectively degrading tetracycline hydrochloride. In particular, the removal rate reaches up to similar to 100% after 6 min reaction under 50 W ultrasonic radiation. The composite catalyst is stable and recyclable, which can be applied in practical wastewater treatment.