Nano Zero-valent Iron (nZVI)-based Catalysts in Persulfate-based Advanced Oxidation Processes for the Removal of Emerging Contaminants

<jats:p>Emerging contaminants (ECs) pose significant challenges due to their pronounced toxicity, environmental persistence, and bioaccumulation potential. These contaminants are frequently detected across various environmental matrices, underscoring the urgent need for effective management strategies. Nano zero-valent iron (nZVI), when employed in persulfate-based advanced oxidation processes (PS-AOPs), has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in degrading ECs. This effectiveness stems from its unique physicochemical properties, including a high surface area, magnetic characteristics, colloidal stability, and enhanced reactivity. This chapter provides an overview of synthesis and modification strategies for nZVI-based materials, highlighting their role as highly efficient catalysts in PS-AOPs for the removal of ECs from water and wastewater. It also explores the mechanisms by which nZVI-based catalysts activate persulfate, focusing on degradation performance, reactive oxidizing species generation, and the underlying reaction pathways. Finally, this chapter addresses current research challenges and future prospects in this field.</jats:p>