Employ of recovered LTA zeolite for the photocatalytic degradation of representative dyes

Abstract

This study addresses the reuse of recovered LTA zeolite from industrial processes as an iron support for the photocatalytic degradation of representative dyes in wastewater. The materials were prepared through cation exchange and impregnation with different iron loadings, and characterized by XRD, S_BET, TPR, and DRS UV-Vis. The photocatalytic evaluation was performed using methyl orange as a model contaminant, and optimal operating conditions were established at 200 mg of catalyst, 10 mg/L of dye, and natural pH. The solid containing 6 % iron exhibited the best performance, achieving degradation above 97 % and validating its efficiency against other dyes such as Congo red (99.80 %) and methylene blue (76.65 %). These results confirm the potential of Fe‑LTA 6 % as a sustainable alternative for wastewater treatment, adding value to an industrial residue and promoting circular economy principles.