Synthesis and characterization of amino functionalized bimetallic metal-organic frameworks as peroxymonosulfate activator for water purification: Performance and mechanistic studies

The importance of new water purification technology for maintaining clean water resources and a high quality of life is self-evident. In this study, amino functionalized bimetallic metal-organic frameworks (NH 2 -MIL-101(FeCo)) were prepared to activate peroxymonosulfate (PMS) for removal of organic pollutants from water. The structure, morphology, and physicochemical properties of as-prepared NH 2 -MIL-101(FeCo) were comprehensively evaluated by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, N 2 adsorption-desorption isotherms, and X-ray photoelectric spectroscopy. Degradation tests were performed to study effects of PMS concentration, catalyst dosage, initial pH, and common substances on the orange G (OG) removal. The acidic and alkaline conditions promoted the formation of mesoporous structures in NH 2 -MIL-101(FeCo) and enhanced the mass transfer processes to remove OG. 100% of OG was removed through a rate constant of 0.0711 min -1 within 45 min in NH 2 -MIL-101(FeCo)− 2/PMS/OG system, where 1 O 2 , SO 4 •− , and · OH played pivotal contributions in the OG removal. The catalytic activity of NH 2 -MIL-101(FeCo) originated from unsaturated metal sites of Fe(II) and Co(II). This work demonstrates a feasible strategy towards the synthesis of functional MOFs for removal of organic contaminants. • Acidic and alkaline conditions promoted formation of mesoporous structures. • NH 2 -MIL-101(FeCo) showed good activity to PMS and 100% of OG was removed. • 1 O 2 , SO 4 •− , and · OH were the major species responsible for OG removal. • Unsaturated metal sites of Fe(II) and Co(II) contributed to catalytic activity.