Fe(II) and Pyridinic N complex sites synergy to activate PMS for specific generation of O to degrade antibiotics with high efficiency.

In this study, specific generation of O was achieved by activation of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) using N-doped porous carbon with Fe nanoparticles (NPC-Fe), synthesized by carbonizing MIL-88B(Fe) metal-organic frameworks modified with ionic liquid. Fe(II) in the catalyst was found to react with PMS to form •O, and Pyridinic N promoted the conversion of •O to O. Consequently, the NPC-Fe/PMS reaction system could generate a large amount of O by the synergistic effect of Fe(II) and Pyridinic N. The system demonstrated excellent performance in a wide pH range for the degradation of contaminants represented by antibiotics. Additionally, the catalyst NPC-Fe had good stability and recyclability. This work provides novel insights for generating O by activation of PMS for environmental remediation.