Efficient degradation of ibuprofen by Co/Fe@CNFs catalyst in the presence of peroxymonosulfate and persulfate: Characterization, performance, and mechanism comparison

Abstract

BackgroundIbuprofen (IBP) is typically ubiquitous in various environments, which has negatively impacted microorganisms, animals, and human health. MethodsA carbon nanofiber-supported bimetallic catalyst (Co/Fe@CNFs) was synthesized by electrospinning and carbonization for sulfate radical-based advanced oxidation processes (SR-AOPs) in IBP treatment. Co and Fe nanoparticles were wrapped inside the CNFs to avoid agglomeration and achieve uniform distribution. The performances of catalysts were evaluated via IBP degradation efficiencies. FindingsCo/Fe@CNFs could efficiently activate both peroxymonosulfate and persulfate, achieving 100% and 89.1% degradation of IBP within 60 min with an activation energy of 37.4 and 65.4 kJ/mol, respectively. In the PMS system, both Co and Fe catalyze PMS to generate reactive oxygen species (SO4·−, ·OH, O2·− and 1O2), all of which contributed significantly to degradation. However, the main functional species were SO4·− and ·OH in the Fe activated PS system. This work would deepen the understanding of sulfate radical-based advanced oxidation process to further expand its application in environmental remediation.