Application of LC-MS to the analysis of advanced oxidation process (AOP) degradation of dye products and reaction mechanisms

•Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) are used for degrading dyes in effluents.•LC-MS provides valuable information about various species formed during AOPs.•Degradation patterns of various dyes shown in LC-MS studies.•Dye-degradation-mechanism schemes initiated by radicals are presented.

Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) are commonly used for degrading dyes in effluents. Valuable information regarding AOP-mediated formation of intermediates and degradation products can be obtained by using liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry as an analytical technique. We review the recent outcomes on this subject with respect to analytical procedures, literature citations and the proposed reaction mechanisms.