Biomass‐derived pyrogenic carbon is attractive for advanced oxidation processes (AOPs); however, its amorphous structure limits its activation efficiency. Graphene with highly conjugated π structure possesses superior electron transport ability and thus high usefulness. However, bygone strategies are scarcely effective for reforming pyrogenic carbon to graphene. Herein, for the first time, a state‐of‐the‐art flash Joule heating (FJH) technique is showcased for reforming pyrogenic carbon to 2–5‐layer graphene. FJH current‐induced ultrahigh temperature and stress field realize instantaneous (≈10 s) regeneration of pyrogenic carbon via synchronization actions of carbonization, graphitization, and exfoliation. Meanwhile, volatilization of doped N atoms accelerates graphitization but has less of an effect on graphene configuration. Accordingly, tuned oxygen groups at the graphene edge boost peroxydisulfate (PDS) adsorption for finer initiating activation. Subsequently, 2D graphene with excellent electron utilization rate strengthens hydroxyl radical and direct electron transfer pathways in activating PDS for sulfamethoxazole (SMX) degradation. Impressively, the SMX degradation efficiency by fabricated graphene raises ≈8.9‐fold as compared with pristine pyrogenic carbon. Additionally, fabricated graphene is more efficient in PDS activation than commercial metal catalysts. Undoubtedly, this study realizes effective transformation of pyrogenic carbon to graphene for highly efficient metal‐free carbocatalyst.
Preventing pathogenic viral and bacterial transmission in the human environment is critical, especially in potential outbreaks that may be caused by the release of ancient bacteria currently trapped in the permafrost. Existing commercial disinfectants present issues such as a high carbon footprint. This study proposes a sustainable alternative, a bioliquid derived from biomass prepared by hydrothermal liquefaction. Results indicate a high inactivation rate of pathogenic virus and bacteria by the as-prepared bioliquid, such as up to 99.99% for H1N1, H5N1, H7N9 influenza A virus, and Bacillus subtilis var. niger spores and 99.49% for Bacillus anthracis. Inactivation of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus epidermidis confirmed that low-molecular-weight and low-polarity compounds in bioliquid are potential antibacterial components. High temperatures promoted the production of antibacterial substances via depolymerization and dehydration reactions. Moreover, bioliquid was innoxious as confirmed by the rabbit skin test, and the cost per kilogram of the bioliquid was $0.04427, which is notably lower than that of commercial disinfectants. This study demonstrates the potential of biomass to support our biosafety with greater environmental sustainability.
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