We discovered that a trace amount of iron in AC could play a significant role as a catalystfor generation of SO 4 C- ; and iron is inexpensive, non-toxic, naturally abundant and environment friendly. Therefore, use of an iron-modified AC to develop a more energy-efficient and effective alternative for PFOA removal is promising. The main objectives of this study were to evaluate the feasibility of Fe/AC-activated PS oxidation of PFOA under relatively low temperatures (15e45? C)and within a short time frame (up to 10 h). Effects of initial pH, thecontent of Fe in Feemodified AC (Fe/AC), doses of PS, AC, and Fe/AC on PFOA degradation were investigated. Effects of temperatures as well as the kinetics and activation energies were also determined.The reaction pathways and its mechanism were proposed.