# RUI: Heterostructured Bismuth-Based Metal Oxides Photocatalysts for the Degradation of Chlorinated Organic Contaminants

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Ball State University (IN) · $370,817

## Abstract

Many organic compounds that contain chlorine can remain in the environment for a long time, potentially harming human health and ecosystems. Chlorinated organic solvents, such as trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE), are common groundwater pollutants in the U.S. and worldwide. Many people have been exposed to TCE and PCE through contaminated drinking water, raising health concerns. Decomposing these contaminants is challenging because of the strong carbon-chlorine bond. This project aims to develop new catalysts based on bismuth oxide to break down these pollutants. The research will design earth-abundant, eco-friendly nanocomposites made of two metal oxides arranged in particular ways to degrade organochlorine compounds using sunlight. Adding a small amount of environmentally friendly carbon material will enhance the catalyst's activity. This project will engage students in research activities to enrich their education by exploring new knowledge, developing key skills, and inspiring students to pursue careers in STEM.

The goal of this project is to develop visible light-activated photocatalysts based on heterostructured bismuth-based metal oxide nanomaterials for the sustainable degradation of persistent chlorinated organic contaminants. The hypothesis is that designing Aurivillius/pyrochlore Z-scheme heterojunctions of bismuth-based metal oxides will enhance the redox potential of the photocatalyst band gap, enabling the degradation of chlorinated organic

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2519344
- **Awardee organization:** Ball State University (IN)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** KDP6QKY6QLM1
- **PI:** Elsayed Zahran
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** —
- **Estimated total:** $370,817
- **Funds obligated:** $370,817
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2519344

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2519344, RUI: Heterostructured Bismuth-Based Metal Oxides Photocatalysts for the Degradation of Chlorinated Organic Contaminants. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2519344. Licensed CC0.

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