ARCHIVES
VOL. 10, ISSUE 3 (2026)
Comparative analysis of the photocatalytic degradation of Malathion and Profenofos over Cu₂O, ZnO and TiO₂ nanostructures
Authors
Ikra Ahmed, Deependra Singh Raghuwanshi
Abstract
Malathion and Profenofos are widely used
organophosphate pesticides that can enter soil and water systems through
agricultural activities, causing potential environmental and ecological
concerns. Their persistence and complex chemical structures have increased the
need for effective and environmentally sustainable degradation methods.
Photocatalytic degradation using semiconductor nanomaterials has emerged as a
promising approach for the removal of pesticide contaminants from environmental
systems. This study provides a comparative assessment of the photocatalytic
degradation of Malathion and Profenofos, with particular emphasis on Cu₂O, ZnO,
and TiO₂ photocatalysts. The available literature on the properties,
environmental significance, degradation behavior, and photocatalytic treatment
of these pesticides is critically reviewed. The fundamental photocatalytic
mechanism involving light-induced electron–hole generation and reactive oxygen
species is discussed. The photocatalytic characteristics of Cu₂O, ZnO, and TiO₂
are comparatively examined to evaluate their potential for organophosphate
pesticide degradation. Possible degradation pathways of Malathion and
Profenofos are discussed based on reported studies, while existing limitations
and research gaps are also identified. The comparative analysis provides useful
insights into the role of semiconductor photocatalysts in the degradation of
organophosphate pesticides and highlights the potential of Cu₂O, ZnO, and TiO₂
for future environmental remediation applications.
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Pages:58-62
How to cite this article:
Ikra Ahmed, Deependra Singh Raghuwanshi "Comparative analysis of the photocatalytic degradation of Malathion and Profenofos over Cu₂O, ZnO and TiO₂ nanostructures". International Journal of Chemistry Studies, Vol 10, Issue 3, 2026, Pages 58-62
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