Superoxide mediated production of hydroxyl radicals by magnetite nanoparticles: Demonstration in the degradation of 2-chlorobiphenyl

► The role of the generation of ROS by MNPs for the degradation of 2-CB was elucidated. ► The mechanism of the generation of ROS by MNPs was investigated. ► EPR and quenching studies were used to identify the ROS in this process.