Cobalt super-microparticles anchored on nitrogen-doped graphene for aniline oxidation based on sulfate radicals

Cobalt super-microparticles anchored on nitrogen-doped graphene (Co–NG) were prepared using an inexpensive method and were tested for heterogeneous oxidation of aniline with peroxymonosulfate (PMS) in aqueous solutions. The crystal structure, morphology, and textural properties of Co–NG hybrids were investigated by various characterization techniques, such as X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy , dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Electron paramagnetic resonance and classical quenching tests were conducted to investigate the mechanism of PMS activation and aniline oxidation. The catalyst Co–NG exhibits an unexpectedly high catalytic activity in the degradation of aniline in water by advanced oxidation technology based on sulfate radicals (SO 4 − ), and 100% decomposition can be achieved in 10   min. This paper offers new insights on heterogeneous catalysis.