Co and N co-doped carbon nanotubes catalyst for PMS activation: Role of non-radicals

Metal -nitrogen -carbon catalysts demonstrate significant advantages in the remediation of water environments. Here, a cobalt -nitrogen -carbon catalyst (Co(1.5)-NCNT) with abundant Co-N x active sites and excellent electron transfer capability was prepared via a simple method and used to activate peroxymonosulfate (PMS) for efficient removal of Acetaminophen (APAP). As a result, the Co(1.5)-NCNT/PMS system removed 100% of APAP within 10 min. The reaction process characterization suggested that PMS is adsorbed by Co(1.5)-NCNT to form a Co (1.5)-NCNT-PMS complex, which accelerates PMS activation. Additionally, the singlet oxygen ( 1 O 2 ) generated by PMS activation can effectively attack electron -rich contaminants, facilitating the rapid degradation of APAP. Furthermore, Co(1.5)-NCNT/PMS exhibits strong environmental adaptability, maintaining high catalytic performance in complex water environments for the effective degradation of various pollutants. This study elucidates the properties of Co-N x active sites in the Co(1.5)-NCNT/PMS system and the activation mechanism of PMS, providing new insights into the removal of pollutants through non -radical pathways.