Efficient fluconazole degradation by activating peroxymonosulfate with LDH-coated nickel foam: Synergism of radical and non-radical pathways

Abstract

Fluconazole (FLC) is a fungicide commonly used in humans, plants, and animals to combat fungal infections. Nevertheless, its persistence in the environment poses potential threats to nature. CoNi LDH@NF was synthesized by coating layered bimetallic hydroxide (LDH) on the surface of nickel foam (NF) and utilized for FLC degradation experiments using its activated peroxymonosulfate (PMS). The FLC degradation rate was optimized under the reaction conditions of FLC concentration of 30 mg/L, 25 °C, pH 7.50, PMS concentration of 1.33 mM and 0.99 g/L of CoNi LDH@NF-4. In the CoNi LDH@NF-4/PMS system, efficient radicals and non-radicals were generated, which worked collaboratively to degrade FLC. Combining the results of liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry and density functional theory calculations, we proposed possible intermediates of FLC during degradation. In addition, we performed toxicity testing of the intermediates using toxicity assessment software such as Ecosar. This study demonstrates the significant potential of the CoNi LDH@NF-4/PMS system for treating water pollution.