Fe@C core–shell and Fe@C yolk–shell particles for effective removal of 4-chlorophenol

Abstract

Fe@C core–shell particles were successfully synthesized by coating Fe₂O₃ particles with resorcinol–formaldehyde resins (RFs) and then calcining to make the RFs carbonize, and at the same time to reduce the core to Fe. Furthermore, we designed and synthesized Fe@C yolk–shell particles to increase the number of active sites on the Fe surface. Compared with pure Fe material, the Fe in these particles possesses a high surface area without serious aggregation. Tests to remove 4-chlorophenol suggest that both these kinds of particles can degrade chlorophenol rapidly and thoroughly based on a Fenton-like reaction. Using Fe@C yolk–shell particles, the chlorophenol can be degraded to a concentration below the HPLC detection limit (<0.5 mg l⁻¹) within 12 minutes. The magnetic properties and good stability of Fe@C endow it with promising potential for water treatment.