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Abstract

Presence of persistent and toxic pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) in water bodies has generated considerable scientific, regulatory, and public interests, requiring the development of cost-effective technologies for PPCP treatment. This study reports that sulfate radical (SR)-based advanced oxidation technologies (AOTs) are promising as a new environmental risk management option for PPCP-contaminated water. Triclosan, sulfamethoxazole, and acetaminophen were effectively decomposed and mineralized by the attack of SRs generated through the activation of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) and persulfate with iron. The PMS/Fe system was more effective than persulfate/Fe but less effective than the H₂O₂/Fe (Fenton reaction) system that produces hydroxyl radicals. However, when conjugated with cobalt, PMS showed outstanding reactivity toward PPCPs, whereas negligible decomposition of PPCPs by H₂O₂ was observed. Insights and suggestions on PPCP decomposition by SRs are also discussed, including organic selectivity and system stability. As an alternative to established hydroxyl radical-based AOTs, SR-based AOTs should initiate new strategic plans to manage PPCPs and other emerging chemicals of concern in water resources.

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Sulfate Radicals Destroy Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products

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