TiO2–Fe3O4 Composite Systems—Preparation, Physicochemical Characterization, and an Attempt to Explain the Limitations That Arise in Catalytic Applications

In this work, a composite material based on titanium(IV) oxide and iron(II,III) was prepared using mechanothermal method. The obtained system thoroughly characterized techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, nanoparticle tracking analysis. acute toxicity of the evaluated with Microtox. addition, material’s photocatalytic potential studied in photodegradation tests ibuprofen. revealed magnetic properties usage its recovery after tests. However, activity TiO2–Fe3O4 lower than that bare TiO2. performed under UV (365 nm) light, 44% reduction initial ibuprofen concentration sample noted for TiO2, while composite, only 19% observed. visible light (525 nm), both materials achieved statistically insignificant rates, which contrary to anticipated effect TiO2–Fe3O4. observation explained by side oxidation reaction Fe3O4 Fe2O3 generated reactive oxygen species (ROS) process, significantly diminished amount available ROS degradation. process appearing within evident easily observed color turned from gray brown. Acute assay use Microtox reduced (32% inhibition Aliivibrio fischeri bacteria cell viability according bioluminescence emitted) when compared (56% inhibition), whereas TiO2 non-toxic. study, processes occurring during were analyzed discussed context literature data.