Removal of ciprofloxacin by activated peroxymonosulfate using biomass combined with Co-Fe binary metal

The widespread occurrence of fluoroquinolone antibiotics, particularly ciprofloxacin (CIP), in aquatic environments has raised increasing concerns due to their persistence and potential ecological risks. Developing efficient and sustainable catalysts for advanced oxidation processes remains challenging. Herein, we hypothesize that coupling biomass-derived carbon with Co–Fe bimetallic species can enhance interfacial interactions and promote peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation for efficient CIP removal. A series of SCF/CoFe-X catalysts were synthesized by integrating Co and Fe species onto strawberry petiole derived carbon fiber (SCF) through solvothermal treatment and calcination. Among them, SCF/CoFe-800 exhibited the best catalytic performance, achieving 92.48% CIP degradation within 30 min, along with good pH adaptability and recycling stability. Mechanistic studies revealed that sulfate radicals were the predominant reactive species, while multiple oxidation pathways contributed to CIP degradation. LC-MS analysis identified three possible degradation pathways, and toxicity assessment indicated reduced environmental risks of most intermediates. This work provides insights into the design of sustainable biomass-derived Co-Fe catalysts for PMS activation and antibiotic wastewater remediation.