Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), widely used as synthetic organic materials in industrial production, pose significant environmental and health risks due to their stability and persistence. Recent research has highlighted the potential of sulfate radicals for water treatment, effectively degrading PFAS through the activation of precursors like peroxymonosulfate (PMS) and persulfate (PS). This review examines various activation methods and their efficiency in removing PFAS compounds, including thermal, ultrasonic, microwave, photochemical, catalytic, and electrochemical processes. The review also explores the impact of operational parameters, such as pH, temperature, precursor concentration, and co-contaminants, on PFAS degradation efficiency. Understanding these factors is crucial for optimizing treatment processes. Additionally, it delves into the degradation mechanisms, including defluorination and carbon-carbon bond cleavage, providing insights into the pathways of PFAS breakdown. Despite promising results, challenges remain, such as the potential formation of toxic by-products and the energy demands of activation methods. Addressing these issues may involve developing more efficient catalysts, optimizing conditions, and combining multiple treatments. This review offers valuable insights for researchers and practitioners, contributing to the advancement of PFAS remediation strategies and ultimately protecting human health and the environment from these persistent pollutants.

Key words: AOP, Peroxymonosulfate, Persulfate, PFOS, Mechanism