Researchers at Xiamen University have developed a pH-responsive Fenton system for water treatment, offering enhanced safety and precision in generating hydroxyl radicals.
The innovative system controls iron redox cycling using hydroxylamine and EDTA ligands within a specific pH range, ensuring selective production of reactive species.
By stabilizing iron species at pH 7.0 to 10.0, the system enables sustained generation of hydroxyl radicals for efficient pollutant degradation.
The self-pausing mechanism automatically halts radical production outside the optimal pH window, enhancing safety and reducing energy consumption.
A multi-dosing protocol with hydroxylamine prolongs radical half-life, improving pollutant oxidation in fluctuating water conditions.
The system's adaptive nature addresses challenges in smart water treatment, offering real-time response to environmental conditions and reducing reagent discharge.
The technology prevents corrosion, toxic byproducts, and hazardous cyanide volatilization in water treatment, promoting operational safety and environmental compliance.
Experimental and theoretical methods confirmed the system's pH-responsive behavior, highlighting its potential for next-generation catalyst design and environmental solutions.
Dr. Huabin Zeng emphasizes the system's dynamic adjustment to water environments, setting a precedent for active chemical treatments in environmental stewardship.
The pH-responsive Fenton platform offers opportunities for autonomous water treatment facilities and versatile application in diverse wastewater streams.
This innovation aligns with sustainability goals by improving water quality, reducing ecological footprints, and advancing the paradigm of smart infrastructure.