Activation of persulfate, peroxymonosulfate, and peroxydisulfate using metal-organic framework catalysts for degradation of antibiotics: identification, quantification, interconversion, and transformation of reactive species

Effective treatment of antibiotics is a primary concern for the well-being of humans. Sulfate radical-based advanced oxidation processes (SR-AOPs) have evolved as one of the best approaches for eliminating antibiotics owing to their controllable process, superior oxidation potential, capacity to achieve complete mineralization, and selectivity. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have attained notable global focus due to their unique properties, including multiple activation sites, porous and modifiable structure, greater surface area, and flexible preparation approach. Herein, we present a detailed analysis summarizing MOF catalysts for the catalytic degradation of antibiotics. The latest research work (2021-2023) on virgin MOFs, MOF composites, monometallic or bimetallic MOFs, MOF-based nanocomposites, and MOFs-derived materials (such as MOFs-derived metal sulfides and metal oxides, MOFs-derived metal-carbon hybrids, and MOF-derived carbon catalysts) for the removal of antibiotics is summarized in this review. The MOF-derived carbon catalysts are further classified into mono-doping, co-doping, and multiple-doping of carbon-derived MOF catalysts. Identifying radicals via electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) analysis and quenching has drawn significant interest. This review provides thorough information on different strategies utilized for the identification and quantification of radicals, such as quenching analysis, EPR investigation, and probe techniques. Also, this review provides a comprehensive understanding of the transformation and mutual conversion mechanisms of reactive radicals