Synergy of atomically dispersed Co–Fe pairs in nano-confined catalytic membranes enabling efficient water purification

Membrane-confined catalysis technologies have demonstrated the promise for continuous and efficient catalytic generation of reactive oxygen species (ROSs) to degrade organic pollutants. However, constructing improved membranes with feasible sub-/nanometer-confined spaces, adequate catalytic activity, and superior stability remains a major challenge for practical applications. Herein, we report the demonstration of a nano-confined catalytic membrane (CoFe-DSAC@GO) composed of bimetallic Co–Fe single-atoms anchored on nitrogen-doped carbon nanosheets and graphene oxide. The CoFe-DSAC@GO membrane exhibits 100 % removal efficiency with high water permeance (137 L m−2 h−1 bar−1), rapid degradation kinetics (0.41 ms–1), and excellent catalytic stability over 72 h. The nano-confined spaces in the CoFe-DSAC@GO membrane facilitate the generation and utilization of ROSs and catalytic activity. Furthermore, theoretical calculations elucidate that the electron transfer among bimetallic Co–Fe single-atom sites promotes peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation. This work advances the mechanistic understanding and application potential of diatomic synergy in membrane-based nano-confined catalysis for water purification.