Fenton-like photocatalytic degradation of Rhodamine 6G and tetracycline under sunlight irradiation using hexahydroxy copper-stannate CuSn(OH)₆

The study explores the Fenton-like photocatalytic degradation of Rhodamine 6G (Rh6G) and tetracycline (TC) under sunlight irradiation utilizing hexahydroxy copper-stannate (CuSn(OH)₆) (CuHS) as the catalyst. The synthesis of CuHS was accomplished through a chemical process, followed by characterization using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and UV–Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS). The particles of CuHS are highly monodispersed with a regular cubic shape (like spherical) and an mean grain size of 150–300 nm. The Fenton-like photocatalytic activity demonstrated that CuHS exhibits significant photocatalytic activity, achieving substantial degradation of both pollutants within a relatively short period. The adsorption/desorption balance was achieved by introducing the photocatalyst to Rh6G and TC while stirring for 30 min without light. The adsorption of Rh6G and TC on the CuHS surface is significantly higher at pH 11 compared to pH 2 and 6. Additionally, Rh6G and TC degradation under visible light illumination in the presence of CuHS is more pronounced at pH 11 compared to pH 2 and 6. The high efficiency of CuHS in degrading Rh6G and TC is attributed to its unique structural properties and The creation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) under sunlight irradiation. The CuHS is a promising sustainable Fenton-like photocatalytic degradation for environmental remediation applications, particularly in removing organic contaminants from wastewater.