Zeolite-based electron buffer layer on CuO boosts persulfate activation for complete and selective Cu(III) oxidation of organics

Efficient and sustainable generation of high-valent metal-oxo species (HVMs) is critical for selective decontamination via Fenton-like catalysis, however, maintaining electron density balance at the active sites remains challenging. In this study, a zeolite-supported CuO catalyst was found to induce complete and selective Cu(III) oxidation of organics through persulfate (PDS) activation. PDS activation and pollutant oxidation occurred simultaneously at the electron-rich ≡Cu sites and electron-deficient ≡Al centers, respectively. Notably, zeolite could successfully serve as an electron buffer by creating dual active centers with distinct electron densities, stabilizing the generation and retention of ≡Cu(III) for exceptional anti-interference capacity. Strong metal-support interactions tuned the ≡Cu d-band center closer to the Fermi level, efficiently promoting electron transfer to ≡Cu sites through the Al/Si-O-Cu bond for the formation of ≡Cu(III). This study unveils a zeolite-based electron buffering strategy and presents an advanced approach for developing highly efficient catalysts in PDS activation and HVMs-mediated water purification.