Box-Behnken-optimized Cu(I) photo-Fenton-like degradation of Basic Violet 3

The homogeneous oxidative photodegradation of Basic Violet 3 in presence of Cu+/H2O2 is reported. The effects of operating variables such as pH, [H2O2], [Cu+] and [Dye] were maximized with the aid of Box-Behnken design. The dye removal was monitored by using UV-visible spectrophotometer, Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR) and total carbon analyzer. The degradation efficiency for Basic Violet (BV3) reached 99% and appreciable mineralization (70 %) was achieved. Kinetic profiles show consistency with pseudo-first-order rate scheme. Evidence for phenyl ring opening was corroborated by FTIR spectroscopy. The Cu(I) photo-Fenton-like degradation is favored by increasing pH.