Citation: Qingming Zeng, Yanjun Wen, Beibei Gao, Qingyan Zhang, Lulin Guo, Chao Zhang, Jiachen Wang, Qingyi Zeng. Self-driven photoelectrocatalytic systems with carbon-felt-loaded carboxylated carbon nanotube cathodes: Reduction of uranyl, oxidation of organics, and power generation[J]. Chinese Chemical Letters, ;2025, 36(9): 110673. doi: 10.1016/j.cclet.2024.110673 shu

Self-driven photoelectrocatalytic systems with carbon-felt-loaded carboxylated carbon nanotube cathodes: Reduction of uranyl, oxidation of organics, and power generation

School of Resources & Environment and Safety Engineering, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China

Received Date: 2 August 2024
Revised Date: 17 October 2024
Accepted Date: 22 November 2024
Available Online: 22 November 2024

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In this study, we present a self-driven photoelectrocatalytic (SD-PEC) system that effectively treats complex uranium-bearing wastewaters for both uranium recovery and organic matter decomposition while generating power. The system utilizes a titanium dioxide nanorod array (TNR) photoelectrode coupled with a silicon solar cell to optimize electron transport, while the cathode is composed of a carbon fiber coated with carboxylated carbon nanotubes (CCNT/CF), which efficiently reduce UO₂²⁺. The results demonstrate significant removal efficiency of uranium (complete removal in 25 min at a rate constant of ~0.248 min^-1), as well as substantial degradation of organic impurities. Furthermore, the system generates sufficient power output to light an LED lamp and exhibits superior performance under various complex wastewater conditions, including simulated seawater and real uranium tailings wastewater. These findings underscore the potential of the SD-PEC system as a versatile approach for sustainable treatment and energy recovery of radioactive wastewater. The significance of this research extends to global environmental challenges, offering an innovative solution for managing radioactive wastewater while simultaneously contributing to renewable energy generation.
- Uranium recycling,
- Uranyl reduction,
- Organic degradation,
- Photoelectrocatalysis,
- Carbon nanotube
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