Processing of Iron Oxide Waste from Modified Steel Industry as Photocatalyst in Degradation of Dyes
Lina Mahardiani, Sahda Nabilah Qurrotul Aini, Endar Tri Widyawati, Wirawan Cipto Nugroho, Sulistyo Saputro

Universitas Sebelas Maret

Abstract

In this study, Fe2O3 nanomaterials synthesized from steel industry iron oxide waste (N-FL) were modified with starchs and citric acid as a capping agent. This aims to control the size and morphology of iron oxide nanoparticles so as to improve the photocatalyst performance in degrading dyes optimally. The capped N-FL showed an increase in dye degradation activity when compared to unmodified nano iron oxide. XRD, SEM, and FTIR results showed a morphological difference in the material, namely the formation of a sponge layer as an indication of the capping agent derived from flour and the addition of functional groups in the form of C-H, C=C, O-H. Photocatalytic treatment was carried out to degrade dyes, the best results were shown in modification with mokaf flour at 89.560% in MB 10 ppm, 98.064% in MB in Mix MB-MO 10 ppm, and 48.126% in MO in Mix MB-MO 10 ppm. Meanwhile, variation at 50 ppm concentration showed a decrease in degradation efficiency.

Keywords: Fe2O3, waste, capping agent, degradation, photocatalytic

Topic: Chemistry and Chemistry Education