Degradation of ibuprofen by thermally activated persulfate in soil systems

•IBP can be efficiently degraded through thermal activation PS in soil systems.•Sulfate radicals and hydroxyl radicals are responsible of IBP.•Soil matrix (HCO3−, HA) shows an inhibitive effect on IBP decomposition.•IBP is degraded at soil solution, later on soil particles.•Acidic pH accelerates the dissolution of Fe3+ from soil to enhance IBP removal.