Synergistic effect of ferrous ion-activated hydrogen peroxide and persulfate on the degradation of phthalates in aquatic environments by non-target analysis

•DMP was efficiently removed under a wide pH range with combining oxidants.•The synergistic effect of PS and H2O2 was revealed by non-target analysis.•Comparison of dearomatization intermediates reflected the synergistic mechanism.•Higher intensity of •OH and SO4•− rendered a high removal efficiency of DMP.