Green biosynthesized NiFe2O4 coated with rGO for efficient photocatalytic degradation of plastic additives: Synthesis, mechanism, and kinetics

Abstract

Plastic additives, Bisphenol A (BPA), and Allyl 2,4,6-tribormorphenyl ether (ATE) are causing potential risks due to their persistence and incomplete degradation in environmental matrices. Therefore, their extinction by superior materials from the environment is imperative. The nanocomposite rGO@NiFe₂O₄ was green-biosynthesized using A Indica leaves extract to complement green chemistry principles and ensure ecofriendly ness. The rGO@NiFe₂O₄ was utilized to degrade BPA and ATE from wastewater due to its superior photocatalytic activity, large surface area (98 m² g⁻¹), small band gap (2.45 eV), more considerable particle stability (−42.9 mV). This showed the lesser rate of recombination of charge carriers, strong cross-linking with pollutants, and catalytic free radical generation, driven by the synergistic effect of rGO's high conductivity and NiFe₂O₄'s magnetic properties and visible-light adsorption. Ideal removal conditions include a dose of 20 mg of nanocatalyst at 2 mg/L concentration at balanced pH. High degradation of BPA (92 %) and ATE (95 %) was accomplished by the rGO@NiFe₂O₄ in <120 min, followed by first-order kinetics. Its stability revealed by EIS Nyquist plots and high reusability up to 8 consecutive cycles advocated excellent catalytic performance. This study highlights the significance of integrating green synthesis methods with advanced photocatalytic materials for eradicating plastic additives and other pollutants and further research and development.