The Interaction between Pollutants and Catalysts: From Fundamentals to Its Application in Heterogeneous Fenton-like Systems

Heterogeneous Fenton-like reactions represent an attractive alternative to the Fenton reaction for the removal of organic pollutants in water because of the cyclable use of catalysts, avoidance of iron sludge, and expanded pH suitability. However, their lower reactivity has led to extensive efforts to optimize catalyst electron structures and modulate reactive species generation, often neglecting the role of pollutants. Recent studies have revealed that pollutant–catalyst interactions (PCI) significantly influence oxidant activation and pollutant removal. Consequently, a review on the fundamentals of PCI and its application in heterogeneous Fenton-like reactions is of great importance, yet it is not available. In this review, the catalyst design for the control of PCI, characterizations of PCI, and an analysis of current studies that examine the effects of PCI on oxidant activation and pollutant removal processes in various heterogeneous Fenton-like systems for water treatment are summarized. The purpose of this review is to emphasize the crucial role of PCI in pollutant removal processes and to stimulate more studies on the consideration of PCI in heterogeneous Fenton-like reactions and the advancement of water treatment technologies with scenario-based suitability.