Investigation of Total Organic Carbon (TOC) Removal in Domestic Wastewater by Photo-Fenton Process

Abstract

Water consumption is increasing due to industrialization and population growth causing increased amounts of wastewater for discharge with the application of various treatment methods to treat wastewater. Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) are also emerging as a promising technology both as an alternative treatment to conventional wastewater treatment methods and enhancement of current biological treatment methods, for especially highly toxic and non-biodegradable wastes. In this study, the applicability of Photo-Fenton oxidation method was investigated for the removal of total organic carbon (TOO) content in domestic wastewaters. The effects of various process variables on removal performance of the process were evaluated by examining Fe+2 and H2O2 dosages, temperature, pH, the types of reactors and UV lamps. Optimal experimental conditions for the wastewater treatment were found as 200 mg/L Fe+2, 15 mM H2O2 and 35 degrees C. Ultraviolet A (UVA) light type of lamp was used as a light source in order to use solar energy TOC removal efficiencies of 70-90% were obtained under various experimental conditions. As a result of this study, it can be concluded that Fe+2-H2O2/UV process can be safely used for the treatment of domestic wastewaters.