Degradation of tetracycline in water by activating peroxymonosulfate with nano zero-valent iron loading on nitrogen-containing biochar

Abstract

To inhibit the agglomeration of nano zero-valent iron (Fe0) during the reaction, Fe0/NBC supported catalyst was prepared by loading Fe0 on the surface of nitrogen-containing biochar (NBC), and characterized by X-ray diffractometer, specific surface area analyzer and scanning electron microscopy. Fe0/NBC was applied to activate peroxymonosulfate (PMS) for the degradation of tetracycline (TC), and the results indicated that of 93.1% TC was removed after 120 min of reaction. Fe0/NBC showed higher catalytic activity than that of pure Fe0 and NBC. The effects of inorganic ions and natural organic matters on the catalytic performance of was investigated, and the produced reactive oxygen species in Fe0/NBC/PMS system were determinated by radical quenching and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) tests. Stability experiments suggested Fe0/NBC had a good reusability and showed good application prospect in the treatment of antibiotics in the wastewater.