Microwave-enhanced catalytic degradation of 2-nitrophenol on alumina-supported copper oxides

► Well-dispersed copper oxide on alumina catalyst was prepared and characterized by XRD, SEM and FTIR. ► The catalyst was tested in degradation of 2-nitrophenol under microwave irradiation at 2450 MHz and 300 W. ► About 97% 2-nitrophenol removal corresponding to 79% TOC removal rate was achieved at 60 °C. ► The catalyst activity was decreased by about 4% after several experiment runs. ► The catalyst is active and stable for the reaction.