Antibiotic removal from aqueous solutions using CTF: Equilibrium, kinetic, and thermodynamic studies

The widespread presence of nitrofuran antibiotics in aquatic environments poses significant ecological and health risks. In this study, a covalent triazine framework (CTF) was rapidly synthesized via a microwave-assisted ionothermal method and applied for the removal of furazolidone (FZD) from aqueous solutions. The CTF adsorbent exhibited a high adsorption capacity of 219.8 mg g -1 , as determined by the Langmuir isotherm model. Kinetic studies revealed rapid adsorption, with 90% removal achieved within 10 minutes and equilibrium attained in 70 minutes, following a pseudo-second-order model. Thermodynamic analysis indicated the spontaneous and exothermic nature of the adsorption process. Notably, the CTF demonstrated excellent reusability, retaining 95% of its initial adsorption capacity after three consecutive regeneration cycles. These findings highlight the potential of microwave-synthesized CTF as an efficient and sustainable adsorbent for antibiotic wastewater treatment.