MnCo/N-C composite nanomaterials derived from MOFs as peroxymonosulfate activators for highly efficient removal of dyes

Fenton-like technology is an eco-friendly and efficient method to degrade organic contaminants. Herein, a bimetallic catalyst with high catalytic activity was obtained by anchoring Co and Mn on N-doped carbon materials (MnCo/N-C) through a one-step pyrolysis process. Peroxymonosulfate (PMS) was activated by cobalt nanoparticles, nitrogen-coordinated metal atoms, and defect sites in MnCo/N-C to produce several reactive species, including SO₄^•–, ¹O₂, O₂^•–, and •OH. The catalyst showed high activity and excellent stability during the catalytic processes. The degradation of 50 mL of rhodamine B solution with a concentration of 0.03 g/L was almost completed in only five minutes by using 0.1 g/L of the catalyst and 0.2 g/L of PMS. Furthermore, the catalyst could be used over a wide pH range of 3–11. Overall, this work provides a simple approach to preparing a more effective and long-lasting Fenton-like catalyst for the degradation of organic contaminants.