Development of an amorphous cellulose acetate and Fe-MOF-74 mixed-matrix membrane for the synergistic adsorption and Fenton-based degradation of diclofenac

In the present study, we present an innovative mixed-matrix membrane (MMM) consisting of amorphous cellulose acetate and a metal–organic framework (MOF) for the removal of diclofenac (DCF) from aqueous solutions. Porous and hydrophilic MMMs were fabricated with different weight percentages of the MOF using a facile, non-solvent-induced phase separation process. The synthesized MMMs were then systematically analyzed using various characterization techniques. The optimal MMM with the MOF at 0.7 wt% (CAM–0.7) exhibited a high removal efficiency for DCF (96.0%, k = 0.052/min) via concerted adsorption and Fenton oxidation. Quenching experiments and electron spin resonance tests revealed that this excellent degradation performance was due to the generated ^•OH, ¹O₂, and O₂^•− species via H₂O₂ activation. CAM–0.7 also demonstrated remarkable stability and reusability, with a degradation efficiency of 78.8% after four regeneration cycles. The short- and long-term toxicity of DCF and its intermediates was also predicted using ECOSAR software. Collectively, these findings indicate that the proposed MMM is a promising candidate for the adsorption and advanced oxidation of organic pollutants in water treatment processes.