Synthesis of Fe/TaON/β-Si3N4/β-Si3Al3O3N5 Composites for Photocatalytic Degradation of Chloramphenicol in Water

— Fe/TaON/β-Si 3 N 4 /β-Si 3 Al 3 O 3 N 5 metal–ceramic composites have been prepared via autowave combustion of ferrosilicoaluminum and metallic tantalum additions (0, 5, 10, and 15 wt %) in nitrogen. We have determined the phase composition of the composites and studied their morphological features and optical properties. Acid–base properties of the surface of the composites have been investigated and their adsorptive and photocatalytic activity for chloramphenicol degradation has been assessed under UV and visible light illumination. The composites have been shown to be highly effective in oxidative degradation of chloramphenicol (98%) under illumination with visible light.