Metal-free abatement of nitrate contaminant from water using a conducting polymer

A mechanism for the reduction of aqueous nitrate with metal-free polypyrrole (PPy) is proposed. The activity and selectivity polymer has been compared to those metal catalysts supported on polypyrrole, activated carbon or titania (TiO2). role formic acid (FA) hydrogen (H2) as reductants, dioxide (CO2) buffer solution discussed performance PPy by itself. ion-exchange redox properties are strongly affected oxidation state nitrogen moieties in polymeric chain. This determined oxidant/dopant used synthesis (FeCl3 K2S2O8). degree can also be modified a plasma treatment polymer, which determines ability carry out electrons provided chain affects reduction.