Research progress of photocatalytic activated persulfate removal of environmental organic pollutants by metal and nonmetal based photocatalysts

Among many strategies for water treatment, persulfate-based advanced oxidation processes have been received growing attention because of their efficient contaminant mineralization ability. Meanwhile, it is important to develop a safe, economic, and efficient activation technology to deal with organic pollutants by persulfate-based advanced oxidation technology. One of the most ideal methods for persulfate activation is photocatalysis, for its green and environmental protection. Photocatalysts in persulfate systems can enhance light utilization and convert persulfate into active species to degrade organic pollutants. In view of the rare reviews of photoactivated persulfate at present, this review introduces the research progress of the activated persulfate method based on photocatalysts in environmental purification. At first, the mechanism and catalytic performance of persulfate on photocatalysts are presented. Then activation of metal and non-metal photocatalysts is discussed. Finally, the challenges of persulfate activation by photocatalysis and during practical application, such as the deficiency of theoretical calculation and the viewpoint of multi-field assisted photoactivated persulfate, are introduced. It is believed that this review can give researchers an all-around understanding of photocatalytic activation of persulfate and further inspire the research on photocatalytic activated persulfate degradation of organic pollutants.