The synthesis of novel Co-Al2O3 nanofibrous membranes with efficient activation of peroxymonosulfate for bisphenol A degradation

Novel Co-Al2O3 nanofibrous membranes have been successfully fabricated via a facile electrospinning method. The Co-Al2O3 membranes are composed of nanofibers and exhibit good flexibility, high tensile stress and excellent catalytic activation of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) to degrade organic pollutants in water. The divalent cobalt ions distribute uniformly in the fibers by forming Al-O-Co bonds, which are responsible for the catalytic activity of the membranes. 100% bisphenol A (BPA) could be removed within 40 min using the 11% Co-Al2O3-600 degrees C membrane with PMS addition. Electron spin resonance (ESR) and free radical quenching experiments indicate that sulfate radicals (SO4-) and hydroxyl radicals (OH) are generated, and SO4- is the dominant active species in the reaction. The findings of this work suggest the great potential of the Co-Al2O3 membranes in the area of water remediation and open up new avenues for preparing novel membrane form heterogeneous catalysts.