Efficient activation of peroxymonosulfate with zirconia-supported manganese and cobalt catalysts for oxidation of ibuprofen

This study assessed the efficacy of ZrO₂-based catalysts with different Mn(II) and Co(II) metal loadings for catalytic degradation of ibuprofen using peroxymonosulfate anion as oxidant. The support was prepared via co-precipitation, and metal ion deposition was achieved through incipient wetness impregnation. Catalysts were characterized by atomic absorption spectrometry, X-ray diffraction, Fourier-Transform infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electronic microscopy. Optimal experimental conditions resulted in complete ibuprofen degradation in 30 min, with 63.3% mineralization. The best-performing catalyst was reusable up to three times. Both sulfate and hydroxyl radicals were generated in the oxidant activation process.