Efficient activation of persulfate decomposition by Cu2FeSnS4 nanomaterial for bisphenol A degradation: Kinetics, performance and mechanism studies

In this study, a flower-like Cu2FeSnS4 (CFTS) nanomaterial was applied to the activation of persulfate (PS) for the degradation of bisphenol A (BPA) in model industrial wastewater. The efficiency of PS decomposition by CFTS, and the mechanism of contaminant degradation by SO4− were investigated. The results revealed that CFTS catalyzes PS decomposition more efficiently than the monometallic Cu/Fe/Sn sulfides and exhibits activity over a wide pH range. Electron spin resonance spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and free radical quenching experiments revealed a tandem synergistic effect between Cu, Fe, and Sn in their quaternary chalcogenide systems upon PS activation. The intrinsic electron transfer between Cu, Fe and Sn, especially the Fe(II)* species formed upon the complexation of Fe(II) by S on the surface of the CFTS, overcomes the inhibition of the M(n+1)+/Mn+ redox cycle. CFTS shows promise as a catalyst for wastewater treatment.