Tailoring the Fenton-like mechanisms of surface functional groups by corrosive structural defects for superior pollutant degradation on platform carbon

The high abundance, low cost and no toxicity of solid catalyst play governing roles in Fenton-like catalysis via non-radical pathways. Reactive carbons exhibit low capacity for PMS activation and pollutant degradation, although they possess unique material properties. Herein, a simple and efficient two-step strategy of "chemical reduction + acidic corrosion" was proposed and validated to refine platform carbon for Fenton-like catalysis in environmental decontamination. Platform carbon treated by NaBH4 reduction and H2SO4 corrosion exhibited much superior reactivity and selectivity as well as stability for PMS activation to degrade phenolic pollutants in various water matrix. Effects of tailoring condition, catalyst dosage, pollutant concentration, pH range and PMS concentration were studied. Control tests with other catalysts, catalyst reusability and technical applicability were carried out. Reaction mechanisms were elucidated by ESR and radical quenching as well as electrochemical tests. Radical pathway was not a critical role, while catalysis was controlled by catalyst-oxidant surface interactions and non-radical pathways (1O2 and electron transfer), the latter played the dominant role mediated by surface C--O group. Our findings provided a new chance to utilize platform carbon and other inert materials in selective Fenton-like catalysis for safe water purification.