Biocompatible bismuth-based biochar material for degrading environmental endocrine disrupting compounds: Performance study and enhanced electron transfer radical process

Environmental endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) present a significant environmental threat and represent a major challenge in water pollution management. Photocatalysis is a promising method for the treatment of EDCs. Among them, bismuth-based photocatalysts have attracted attention due to their excellent visible light response, narrow band gap, and high efficiency. However, challenges such as easy recombination of photogenerated electrons and holes, low reaction rates, and difficulty in recycling powdered catalysts hinder their practical application. In this investigation, a swift microwave-assisted hydrothermal technique was utilized to fabricate a composite material comprising bismuth-based biochar (BC): BiVO4/AgI/BC. Using 17α-ethynylestradiol (EE2) and estradiol (E2) as model EDCs, the photocatalytic degradation efficiency of BiVO4/AgI/BC was evaluated, alongside an examination of its degradation mechanism and pathways. Remarkably, the incorporation of BiVO4/AgI onto BC significantly augmented the electron transfer rate, fostering the production of •O2−, resulting in a removal efficiency of 99.68% for EE2 and 99.44% for E2, surpassing that of other materials. Furthermore, BiVO4/AgI/BC demonstrated nos3reusability, stability, and low biotoxicity. Thus, BiVO4/AgI/BC exhibits substantial potential for the efficient and environmentally benign elimination of endocrine-disrupting compounds under realistic water conditions. [Display omitted] •Biochar is sourced in an environmentally friendly and cost-effective manner.•A high-performance BiVO4/AgI/BC composite photocatalyst was developed.•The catalyst can activate PMS to degrade over 99% of EE2 and E2 within 1 h.•The treated water is environmentally friendly, allowing plants to grow normally.