The activation mechanisms of permonosulfate and pollutant degradation pathways by generated reactive species

Abstract

In advanced oxidation processes, persulfates exhibit remarkable advantages in the removal of trace and persistent organic pollutants from water. Among these oxidants, peroxymonosulfate (PMS) possesses superior activation efficiency, broader pH adaptability, and enhanced potential in regulating pollutant degradation pathways. This work systematically outlines the activation mechanisms of PMS, with emphasis on the generation of reactive species and their roles in free-radical and non-radical pathways for cleaving chemical bonds in organic pollutants. Through representative case studies, we further compare the different performances of these approaches in degrading organic pollutants. The insights provided a deeper understanding of PMS activation and its application in pollutant degradation, and provided valuable references for developing more efficient water treatment technologies.