Radiant Remedies – Maximizing Wastewater Treatment Efficiency with Optimized Photo-Fenton Techniques

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive investigation into the efficacy of advanced oxidation treatment methods, focusing on the photo-Fenton process for removing organic pollutants from wastewater. Despite prior research, significant knowledge gaps persist regarding the optimal operational conditions for maximizing pollutant removal efficiency. This manuscript fills those gaps through extensive batch experiments, meticulously evaluating the impacts of irradiation time, pH levels, and ferrous sulfate and hydrogen peroxide concentrations on treatment outcomes. Our results indicate that an irradiation time of 140 minutes and a pH of 3.1 are critical for achieving remarkable pollutant removal efficiencies: 91.57% for color, 85.14% for chemical oxygen demand (COD), and 79.87% for total organic carbon (TOC) over a 180-minute treatment period with optimal dosages. To further enhance understanding, we employed predictive models utilizing response surface methodology (RSM) and central composite design (CCD), rigorously assessing their statistical performance. The models demonstrated strong alignment with experimental data and existing literature, showcasing their reliability. This research not only provides novel insights into optimizing wastewater treatment processes but also holds significant practical value for industries aiming to implement effective strategies for mitigating organic pollution. By addressing critical knowledge gaps, this study lays a foundation for improved environmental remediation practices, offering a vital framework for industries committed to sustainable wastewater management.

Keywords

• environmental remediation
• organic pollutants
• photo-fenton process
• predictive modeling
• wastewater treatment