Heterogeneous catalytic ozonation and peroxone-mediated removal of Acetaminophen using natural and modified hematite-rich soil, as efficient and environmentally friendly catalysts

Abstract Hormuz Red Soil (HRS), as a naturally hematite-containing mineral was used to enhance the catalytic ozonation process (COP) of Acetaminophen (ACT) elimination. The surface properties and particle size of HRS mainly composed of ɑ-Fe2O3 were modified via calcination (C-HRS) demonstrating notable catalytic activity. The catalytic activity of C-HRS was evaluated for the ozonation of ACT under various conditions. Complete degradation of 50 mg L−1 ACT was obtained within 10 min at natural conditions with 1.0 g L−1 of C-HRS which was > 10 times faster than single ozonation process (SOP). The C-HRS accelerated the decomposition of ozone to hydroxyl radical on the catalyst’s surface. Moreover, the C-HRS efficiently catalyzed the peroxone reaction for the degradation and mineralization of ACT. The C-HRS exhibited high stability and reusability in consecutive catalytic cycles. This work offers a new, effective, and low-cost catalyst for accelerating of ozone decomposition that can be used in oxidation of pollutants.