Removal of organophosphorus agents via atomically dispersed Co on nitrogen-doped graphene: catalytic degradation and adsorption

In this work, we disperse Co atomically on three-dimensional networks of N-doped graphene (3DNG) through the impregnation of 3DNG with Co(Ac)2·4H2O solution followed by rapid pyrolysis. The structure, morphology and composition of the as-prepared composite, namely ACo/3DNG, are characterized. The atomically dispersed Co and enriched Co–N species afford the ACo/3DNG with unique catalytic activity for hydrolysis of organophosphorus agents (OPs), and the network structure and super-hydrophobic surface of 3DNG ensures excellent physical adsorption capacity. Thus, ACo/3DNG demonstrates good capability for removal of OPs pesticides from water.