Efficient degradation of tetracycline hydrochloride by photocatalytic ozonation over Bi2WO6

Photocatalytic ozonation technique for wastewater treatment has received much attention for their efficient capability in the mineralization of persistent organic pollutants. In this study, nanostructured Bi2WO6 was prepared by hydrothermal method and applied in the photocatalytic ozonation process for tetracycline hydrochloride (TCH) degradation under simulated solar light irradiation. Bi2WO6 triggered an effective synergy between photocatalysis and ozonation, and it showed a good activity and adaptability in the degradation of organic compounds. Besides, the influence of experimental factors on the total organic carbon removal (including catalyst dosage, ozone concentration, initial pH, reaction temperature and coexisting ions) was also investigated comprehensively. Spin-trapping electron paramagnetic resonance measurements and quenching experiments demonstrated that O2−, OH, 1O2 and h+ contributed to TCH degradation. The possible degradation pathways of TCH were proposed by identifying the intermediates with liquid chromatography-mass spectroscopy. •The synergy between photocatalysis and ozonation over Bi2WO6 was investigated.O2−, h+ and 1O2 are the main active species in the degradation of TCH.•Bi2WO6 nanosheet was a good catalyst for the mineralization of TCH.•The possible degradation pathways of TCH were proposed.