A review of recent studies on nano zero-valent iron activated persulfate advanced oxidation technology for the degradation of organic pollutants

Abstract

Nano zero-valent iron activated persulfate (nZVI/PS) advanced oxidation technology is a novel approach with advantages in treating high-concentration and refractory organic pollutants. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of the research progress on nZVI/PS technology for the degradation of organic pollutants in recent years. This paper comprehensively introduces the activation methods of persulfate, the basic principles, and reaction mechanisms of nZVI/PS technology, as well as the degradation of pollutants using supported nano zero-valent iron activated persulfate. The paper discusses the mechanisms and degradation effects of different types of supported nano zero-valent iron (nZVI) activated persulfate (PS) technology for the degradation of organic pollutants under various conditions. The composite material formed by loading nZVI onto a solid support material is beneficial for improving nZVI dispersibility, stability, and reactivity. The synergistic effect of the carrier and nZVI in the composite material significantly improves the removal efficiency of organic pollutants. Furthermore, the paper discusses in detail the degradation efficiency of this technology under different conditions for various types of organic pollutants, including trichloroethylene (TCE), phenol, pyrene, and Ciprofloxacin. The PS/nZVI process can remove the majority of organic pollutants within 60 minutes. Organic pollutant molecules in the solution are degraded into small intermediate products such as organic acids and simple compounds, ultimately transforming into CO₂ and H₂O. The paper identifies the challenges of nZVI/PS technology in engineering applications and proposes future research directions to further promote the application of this technology in organic pollutant treatment. This review is a valuable reference for further research and application of nZVI/PS technology in the field of organic pollutant control.