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BiVO4 and WO3 application in photoelectrochemical degradation of amoxicillin

The fact that antibiotics, pesticides, and other organic pharmaceuticals are regularly detected in surface and wastewaters is quite concerning as more and more data about their adverse effects on aquatic wildlife surfaces. Research shows that such compounds alter organisms and put ecosystems, drinking water, and human health at risk. Among the antibiotics, amoxicillin is one of the most regularly used ones. Since its impact on human health and the environment is still uncertain it is considered an emerging contaminant. Wastewater treatment plants do not successfully remove amoxicillin, which contributes to its presence in water bodies and drinking water. To decompose organic contaminants in an aquatic system, photoelectrochemical processes might be employed. With low production cost, low toxicity, high photostability, resistance to photo-corrosion, and a narrow bandgap (2.4 eV) with a good response to visible-light excitement BiVO4 is a promising visible light-driven photocatalyst. Tungsten trioxide (WO3) is a well-known semiconductor photocatalyst with advantages such as strong stability, long life, non-toxicity, cost- effectiveness, and suitable bandgap (2.6–2.8 eV). This work aimed to examine the photoelectrochemical properties of newly prepared electrodes containing BiVO4 and WO3 as solar active materials. To that end, linear sweep voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, chronoamperometry, Mott Schottky, and open circuit potential analysis were employed. Moreover, the before mentioned electrodes were used in the photoelectrochemical degradation of amoxicillin resulting in various degradation degrees depending on the set reaction conditions.

BiVO4, WO3, photoelectrochemical degradation, amoxicillin

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