Supramolecular imprinted cellulose-based N-doped biomass carbon fiber for visual detection and specific degradation of perfluorooctanoic acid

Abstract

In this study, we successfully synthesized SMIP@N-CF, a nitrogen-doped biomass carbon fiber, using supramolecular imprinting technology. This material has good perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) adsorption properties and excellent photocatalytic ability. Therefore, it is possible to apply SMIP@N-CF to the detection system of PFOA for visual detection and to the photocatalytic process based on peroxymonosulfate (PMS) for the degradation of PFOA. The Independent Gradient Model (IGM) explains that visual detection relies on the rapid adsorption of PFOA by functional monomers, covering the catalytic site and resulting in a color change. Experimental evidence verifies its good linear response within the 0.07–90 µM range. Density Functional Theory (DFT) elucidates that charge transfer between pyridine N and C atoms activated PMS to produce reactive oxygen species to degrade PFOA, and the final degradation rate reached 94.3 %. The successful application of SMIP@N-CF provides a new idea for further understanding nitrogen-doped biomass materials and provides a scientific basis for detecting and degrading PFOA in water.