Carbon-based catalysts in advanced oxidation processes for sulfonamide degradation: Environmental challenges and innovations

The widespread presence of sulfonamide (SFA) antibiotics in the environment, due to their extensive use in medicine, poses significant ecological and health risks, including bioaccumulation and the promotion of antibiotic resistance. Various techniques for removing SFA antibiotics from water and wastewater have been investigated, encompassing biological, physical, and chemical methods. Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), noted for their rapid reaction rates and potent oxidation capabilities, have been increasingly recognized as effective for degrading SFA in aquatic environments. In this review paper, the potential of carbocatalytic remediation is highlighted, showcasing an innovative approach that utilizes carbon-based catalysts for the degradation of SFA. In AOPs, the role of a carbocatalyst is crucial for the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and electron transfer, which contribute to the efficient breakdown of SFA. The study further identifies and delineates multiple research gaps, proposing them as key areas for future investigational directions.