Electro-assisted catalytic wet air oxidation of organic pollutants on a MnO@C/GF anode under room condition

Abstract

Catalytic oxygen (O₂) activation for oxidative removal of pollutants under ambient condition is important for pollution control. Herein, we report a hybrid of MnO catalyst confined in a porous carbon matrix on a graphite felt support (MnO@C/GF) for electro-activation of O₂ toward degradation of various pollutants at ambient condition. The electro-assisted catalytic wet air oxidation (ECWAO) process on anodic MnO@C/GF is able to completely mineralize dyes and typical pharmaceuticals and personal care products. Mechanistic studies indicate the oxidation of the organic pollutants in the ECWAO process involves chemisorption of O₂ on MnO, activation of the chemisorbed oxygen species via electro-oxidation reaction, and oxidation of organic pollutants by the activated chemisorbed oxygen species. The carbon matrix prevents MnO leaching during the ECWAO process, thus endowing the composite with excellent stability and reusability. The process demonstrates high efficiency, low energy input and environmental friendliness, exhibiting a great potential for practical wastewater treatment.