Polydopamine‐Modified Monolithic Cobalt‐Based Catalyst for Activating Peroxymonosulfate: An Efficient Strategy for Tetracycline Degradation

Abstract Antibiotics play a crucial role in modern medicine, yet their improper use has resulted in significant contamination of global groundwater. Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), especially sulfate radical‐based AOPs (SR‐AOPs), offer a promising solution by generating strong oxidizing species to degrade persistent organic pollutants. In this study, we developed a novel monolithic cobalt‐based catalyst, MF@PDA/Co(OH) 2 , fabricated by immobilizing Co(OH) 2 on polydopamine (PDA)‐functionalized melamine foam (MF) through a facile impregnation approach. The PDA modification not only ensures strong Co(OH) 2 adhesion but also minimizes cobalt leaching. Comprehensive characterization confirmed the catalyst's structural integrity, while systematic evaluations demonstrated exceptional stability and reusability in peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation. Mechanistic investigations revealed a synergistic degradation mechanism involving both radical (•SO 4 − and •OH) and non‐radical ( 1 O 2 and electron transfer) pathways for tetracycline removal. This study presents a scalable strategy for developing efficient, cobalt‐conserving, and durable catalytic materials, advancing practical SR‐AOP applications for antibiotic‐contaminated wastewater remediation.