Reutilization of Cr-Y zeolite obtained by biosorption in the catalytic oxidation of volatile organic compounds

► A Cr-loaded NaY catalyst was obtained by biosorption of Cr(VI) from water. ► This modified zeolite was reutilized as catalyst in the oxidation of VOC, namely ethyl acetate, ethanol and toluene. ► Cr-NaY catalyst showed higher activity and selectivity to CO2, in comparison with the starting zeolite NaY. ► The presence of chromium shifted also the reaction pathways.