Cerium/sulfur co-doped spinel iron-cobalt oxide@carbon interconnected mesh networks as superior peroxymonosulfate activator for tetracycline degradation

Transition metal spinel oxides have potential applications in activating peroxymonosulfate (PMS) to generate reactive substances for degrading organics in polluted water. However, many catalytic materials have low efficiency, indicating the need for advancements in material design. In this study, we present the one-step fabrication of Ce, S-codoped spinel iron-cobalt oxide@carbon (Ce-FeCo2O4@SxC) with interconnected mesh networks for efficient PMS activation in degrading tetracycline hydrochloride (TCH). Among the Ce-FeCo2O4@SxC samples, Ce-FeCo2O4@S1.5C demonstrates the highest catalytic performance, achieving a TCH degradation efficiency of 97.2% in 30 minutes. Moreover, the catalytic system also exhibits anti-interference abilities against various anions and shows universality in degrading organic pollutants. Characterization and experimental tests confirm the co-existence of radical (SO4•−, •OH and O2•−) and non-radical pathways (1O2 and direct electron transfer), with 1O2 identified as the primary reactive species. Three plausible pathways for TCH removal are proposed based on detected intermediate products. Toxicity evaluation reveals a significant reduction in the toxicity of the original TCH solution during the degradation process with the PMS activator. This study introduces a simple yet effective co-doping strategy to enhance the catalytic properties of spinel oxides for PMS activation in degrading organic contaminants in aquatic environments.