Cobalt super-microparticles anchored on nitrogen-doped graphene for aniline oxidation based on sulfate radicals.

Cobalt super-microparticles anchored on nitrogen-doped graphene (Co-NG) were prepared using an inexpensive method and were tested for heterogeneous oxidation of aniline with peroxymonosulfate (PMS) in aqueous solutions. The crystal structure, morphology, and textural properties of Co-NG hybrids were investigated by various characterization techniques, such as X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Electron paramagnetic resonance and classical quenching tests were conducted to investigate the mechanism of PMS activation and aniline oxidation. The catalyst Co-NG exhibits an unexpectedly high catalytic activity in the degradation of aniline in water by advanced oxidation technology based on sulfate radicals (SO4-), and 100% decomposition can be achieved in 10min. This paper offers new insights on heterogeneous catalysis.