A Mini Review on Persulfate Activation by Sustainable Biochar for the Removal of Antibiotics

Antibiotic contamination in water bodies poses ecological risks to aquatic organisms and humans and is a global environmental issue. Persulfate-based advanced oxidation processes (PS-AOPs) are efficient for the removal of antibiotics. Sustainable biochar materials have emerged as potential candidates as persulfates (Peroxymonosulfate (PMS) and Peroxydisulfate (PDS)) activation catalysts to degrade antibiotics. In this review, the feasibility of pristine biochar and modified biochar (non-metal heteroatom-doped biochar and metal-loaded biochar) for the removal of antibiotics in PS-AOPs is evaluated through a critical analysis of recent research. The removal performances of biochar materials, the underlying mechanisms, and active sites involved in the reactions are studied. Lastly, sustainability considerations for future biochar research, including Sustainable Development Goals, technical feasibility, toxicity assessment, economic and life cycle assessment, are discussed to promote the large-scale application of biochar/PS technology. This is in line with the global trends in ensuring sustainable production.