Imprinted polymers embedding Fe(III) complexes as advanced catalysts for the degradation of dye pollutants

This work describes the development of molecularly imprinted polymers embedding Fe(III) complexes as efficient and environmentally friendly catalysts for the degradation of persistent industrial dye pollutants. The study combines homogeneous catalyst screening with molecular imprinting to obtain recyclable materials capable of selectively adsorbing and oxidatively degrading textile dyes. The resulting polymers showed high decolorization efficiency, low iron leaching, and reduced cytotoxicity of the degradation products, while maintaining their performance in simulated industrial wastewater. These findings highlight the potential of Fe(III)-based imprinted polymers as sustainable catalysts for wastewater treatment.