Zeng, et al (2024) Efficient degradation of sulfadiazine by UV-triggered electron transfer on oxalic acid-functionalized corn straw biocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More for activating peroxyacetic acid: Performance, mechanism, and theoretical calculation. Bioresource Technology. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biortech.2024.131103

A recent study explored the effective removal of sulfadiazine (SDZ) from water using a novel system combining UV light, oxalic acid-functionalized corn straw biochar (OCBC), and peroxyacetic acid (PAA). This method successfully eliminated 94.7% of SDZ in just 30 minutes. The process relies on the electron-donating properties of OCBC when exposed to UV light, enhancing the reaction with PAA and producing reactive oxygen species (ROS) like hydroxyl radicals (•OH) and singlet oxygen (1O2). These ROS are critical for breaking down SDZ.

Characterization techniques like cyclic voltammetry and electron paramagnetic resonance confirmed the generation of these reactive species. Theoretical calculations further showed that the sulfonamide bridge in SDZ is particularly susceptible to these reactive species, leading to its degradation.

The study also demonstrated the system’s sustainability and environmental safety through five reuse cycles and tests in various water conditions. This innovative approach not only achieves high efficiency in SDZ removal but also offers a promising strategy for repurposing agricultural waste like corn straw into functional biochar.

Given the environmental challenges posed by SDZ and other similar contaminants, this UV/OCBC/PAA system provides a feasible and efficient solution, combining advanced oxidation processes with sustainable resource utilization. The research highlights a significant step forward in both water purification technology and agricultural waste management.