Fe3O4 derived from the decomposition of siderite as a heterogeneous photocatalyst to degrade 2,4-dichlorophenol via activating PMS

This study showcases the performance of Fe 3 O 4 (S600) derived from the decomposition of siderite in activating peroxymonosulfate (PMS) for the 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP) degradation, as well as the enhancement of visible light in the S600/PMS system. With the involvement of visible light, 2 g/L Fe 3 O 4 and 0.5 mM PMS achieved 100 % degradation of 2,4-DCP within 70 min. Singlet oxygen ( 1 O 2 ) and hydroxyl radicals ( OH) were the primary reactive species responsible for 2,4-DCP degradation under visible light irradiation based on the scavenging experiments and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) analysis. Importantly, compared to the absence of visible light, the visible light boosted 1 O 2 production and accelerated 2,4-DCP degradation. The effects of various operating parameters on the degradation efficiency were also examined, and the intermediates and possible degradation pathways of 2,4-DCP were identified. This study proves that the integrated utilization of natural siderite derivatives to activate oxidants for pollutant degradation is a promising approach.