Montmorillonite-supported Cu-tripeptide complex for efficient Congo red degradation

Abstract

Novel hybrid materials were synthesized by immobilizing copper-triglycine (GGG-Cu) and copper-glycine-glycine-histidine (GGH-Cu) complexes onto 3-(aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES)-modified montmorillonite K10 (K10–NH). Characterization confirmed successful grafting of APTES and immobilization of the complexes. Band gap analysis revealed that the incorporation of copper complexes influenced the electronic properties of the materials. The prepared hybrid materials demonstrated superior catalytic activity in both Fenton-like and photocatalytic degradation of Congo red dye, achieving degradation rates of up to 96 % and 90 %, respectively. The catalyst with the GGH-Cu complex exhibited better reusability over multiple cycles. These findings highlight the potential of these eco-friendly hybrid materials for efficient and sustainable water treatment.