Synthesis and characterization of nickel ferrite (NiFe2O4) nano-catalyst films for ciprofloxacin degradation

The challenges associated with efficient removal of ciprofloxacin (CIP), such as low efficiency, high energy consumption, and the generation of harmful by-products have prompted the development of environmentally friendly degradation techniques. This study investigates the synthesis and characterization of nickel ferrite doped with cellulose acetate (NiFe₂O₄/CA) composite films and coupling with Dielectric Barrier Discharge (DBD) reactor to facilitate ciprofloxacin degradation. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed the presence of spherical NiFe₂O₄ nanoparticles exhibiting enhanced surface particulate morphology and pore structure following the calcination process. This structural modification resulted in improved adsorption capabilities. The SEM images of NiFe₂O₄/CA composite films exhibited consistent catalyst performance in a DBD plasma setup across multiple cycles. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) illustrated well-dispersed surfaces with a hollow structure and symmetrical distribution of carbon dots (CDs). Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis confirmed uniform dispersion of atomic components in the nanoparticles. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns indicated high crystallinity and effective integration of NiFe2O4 and CA, supporting their stability for reuse. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis revealed elemental composition and oxidation status, confirming the successful incorporation of carbon dots and metal-oxygen bonds. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) validated the synthesis of NiFe₂O₄/CA composite films, while Raman spectroscopy further confirmed characteristic peaks, affirming efficient fabrication. The degradation results revealed an upsurge efficiency of 86.13 % for 10 mg/L CIP after 60 min of treatment with 9 % NiFe₂O₄/CA films, which outperformed other catalysts reported in previous studies. These findings underscore the distinctive performance of incorporating CA into NiFe₂O₄ NCs and shed light on their potential application for efficient degradation of CIP in the environment.