Photocatalytic Removal of U(VI) from Wastewater via Synergistic Carbon-Supported Zero-Valent Iron Nanoparticles and S. Putrefaciens

In this study, nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI) particles were synthesized on fullerene, carbon nanotubes and graphene to use with S. putrefaciens for U(VI) reduction under light conditions. Of the three composites, the nZVI-carbon nanotube (nZVI-CNT) composites removed the highest amount of U(VI) of 1210.9 mg/g. The nZVI-CNT composites and S. putrefaciens exhibited a synergistic effect on U(VI) reduction under light conditions. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) results revealed the presence of U(IV) species on the reacted bio-nZVI-CNT. S. putrefaciens might decrease the interfacial energy barrier of the photocatalytic reduction process in the bio-nZVI-CNT system. This work highlights the enhanced U(VI) removal capacity of the complex nZVI-CNT and electricigen hybrid system and provides a promising strategy for wastewater treatment.