Magnetic MnFe2O4/MoS2 nanocomposites synthesis for rapid degradation of sulfamethoxazole by activated peroxymonosulfate

Sulfamethoxazole (SMX), as a widely used antibiotic, has been frequently detected in various environments. The accumulation of SMX in water has posed potential risk to the biology and human health. Advanced oxidation technology (AOPs) is an effective method to remove refractory organic pollutants, which has drawn great attention in recent years. Magnetic MnFe2O4/MoS2 nanocomposites were synthesized by a two-step hydrothermal method, and characterized with different physicochemical methods. The catalytic performance and mechanism of MnFe2O4/MoS2 were studied by the degradation of SMX under peroxisate (PMS) condition. The catalytic performance of MnFe2O4/MoS2 nanocomposites was superior to that of individual MnFe2O4 or MoS2 due to the cyclic effect of Fe(II)/Fe(III) and Mn(II)/Mn(III) occurred in the interfaces of MnFe2O4/MoS2. The degradation efficiency of SMX reached 99.1% within 15 min at room temperature, and the catalytic system can maintain a high degradation efficiency in a wide pH range of 3.0 ∼ 9.0. EPR and radical burst experiments showed the main active species of the MnFe2O4/MoS2–3/PMS reaction system were SO4•- and •OH radicals. Furthermore, the catalyst exhibits superparamagnetic properties and good stability to enable its recycle and reuse.