Synergistic integration of Fe-MOF and biomass-derived activated carbon for enhanced ciprofloxacin adsorption: experimental insights and DFT-based mechanistic elucidation

RSC Advances 2026 Open access

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Authors: Muhammad Abdullah, Khalil Ahmad, Faisal Khan, Muhammad Rawal, Qasim Raza, Muhammad Kashif, Faluk Shair, Aqeel Ahmad Shah, Adeela Saeed, Irfan Ahmad, Sooman Lim
DOI: 10.1039/d6ra01713d
Cited by: 1
References: 52

Abstract

= 0.97), suggesting monolayer adsorption on homogeneous surfaces. Thermodynamic analysis indicated a spontaneous and exothermic process. DFT calculations provided qualitative electronic-level insights that were consistent with the Langmuir/PSO interpretation, suggesting favorable Fe-O-CIP interactions at pH 6. These results complemented but did not independently validate the experimental and mechanistic analysis. Reusability tests demonstrated minimal efficiency loss over five cycles, highlighting the composite's potential as a cheap and sustainable adsorbent for antibiotic-contaminated wastewater treatment.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Metal-Organic Frameworks: Synthesis and Applications Adsorption and biosorption for pollutant removal Covalent Organic Framework Applications

Publication details

Journal / source
RSC Advances
Publisher
Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Volume
16
Issue
37
Pages
40058–40075
Publication date
1 January 2026
Language
EN