CuNPs as an activator of K2S2O8 for the decolorization of diazo dye in aqueous solution

Degradation of trypan blue (TB) by persulfate/CuNPs system was investigated as a function of TB concentration, persulfate concentration, CuNPs concentration, pH, and reaction temperature in aqueous solution. The rate of the decolorization and destruction of aromatic ring were studied spectrophotometrically. The dye mineralization was performed with potassium dichromate for the determination of chemical oxygen demand (COD) in solution. The blue color reaction mixture became red-chocolate, purple, light blue to dark blue as a function of time. The CuNPs acted as an activator of K₂S₂O₈ and generates various reactive oxygen and/or sulphur species. Decolorization of dye starts due to the cleavage of azo bond by the generated radical species. The role of sulfate radicals (SO₄^?-), and hydroxyl radicals (HO^?) were established by using different radical scavengers. Degradation and mineralization of dye follows first-order kinetics. These results can support the design of remediation processes and also assist in predict their fate in environment.