Researchers Develop Innovative System to Remove Antibiotics from Wastewater

Researchers from Suzhou University of Science and Technology and Beijing Technology and Business University, among others, have unveiled a groundbreaking study focused on enhancing wastewater treatment technologies. The research, titled “Dual-functional Ag-Fe@Biochar systems: simultaneous adsorption and radical-mediated oxidation of antibiotics in Fenton-like reactions,” was published in the journal Frontiers of Environmental Science & Engineering.

The study addresses the growing ecological concerns linked to the widespread use of Levofloxacin (LVF), a third-generation fluoroquinolone antibiotic utilized in human, veterinary, and agricultural applications. LVF’s prevalence raises significant risks, including the potential development of drug-resistant bacteria and “superbugs.” Traditional wastewater treatment methods, particularly classical Fenton processes, often struggle with limitations such as narrow pH adaptation ranges and inherent drawbacks, making effective LVF removal a pressing challenge.

To tackle this issue, the researchers developed a silver-modified nano zero-valent iron loaded coconut shell biochar composite, referred to as Ag-nZVI/BC. The synthesis involved a two-step method, allowing for a comprehensive investigation into the composite’s structural characteristics, performance in LVF removal, influencing factors, degradation mechanisms, and the associated ecotoxicity.

Key Findings and Implications

The findings from this research are notable. The Ag-nZVI/BC composite demonstrated a specific surface area of 785.4345 m2/g, featuring abundant oxygen-containing functional groups that enhance its effectiveness in adsorption. Under optimal conditions—specifically, a pH of 3.0, 10 mmol/L H2O2, and a catalyst concentration of 0.3 g/L—the system achieved an impressive 91.2% removal rate of LVF within just 60 minutes.

Further analysis revealed that hydroxyl radicals (OH) and superoxide radicals (·O2−) were the primary reactive species responsible for the degradation of LVF. The study identified three main degradation pathways, which included the cleavage of the piperazine ring and the defluorination process. Following treatment, the eco-toxicity of the wastewater was found to be reduced by 62.7%, indicating a significant improvement in environmental safety.

Moreover, the catalyst displayed remarkable durability, maintaining 83.4% efficiency even after five cycles of use, which underscores its potential for practical applications in wastewater treatment processes.

A Sustainable Solution

This innovative study not only highlights the dual-functional capabilities of Ag-nZVI/BC in both adsorption and oxidation but also paves the way for a sustainable technical solution to the challenges posed by antibiotic-contaminated wastewater. As researchers continue to explore and refine such technologies, the potential for more effective and eco-friendly wastewater management strategies becomes increasingly feasible.

For those interested in further details, the full research paper can be accessed at: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11783-025-2047-y.