The Fenton Process for Wastewater Treatment
Fenton process has been an effective technique for the treatment of wastewater comprising of toxic refractory and organic pollutants. Fenton process comprise of advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) developed for the improvement of biodegradability of organic pollutants through oxidation process. Fenton process is more popular as compared to other AOPs due to its wider range of application, rapid degradability and mineralization, simpler operation and strong ability for anti-interference.
The Fenton Process, a potent oxidative method for wastewater treatment, stands out for its effectiveness in pollutant degradation, while a comprehensive discussion on Packaged Type Water Treatment Systems highlights their versatile applications. The paradigm shift towards No Sludge Treatment signifies an eco-friendly approach, minimizing environmental impact in modern water treatment practices.
Process
Fenton Chemistry – Foundation and Operational Considerations
The Fenton reaction, first introduced by H.J.H. Fenton in 1894, demonstrated that hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) could be activated by ferrous ions (Fe²⁺) to oxidize organic compounds such as tartaric acid. The core mechanism involves the conversion of Fe²⁺ to Fe³⁺, resulting in the decomposition of H₂O₂ into highly reactive hydroxyl radicals (•OH):
Fe²⁺ + H₂O₂ → Fe³⁺ + OH⁻ + •OH k₂:₁ = 40–80 L·mol⁻¹·s⁻¹
This reaction is widely regarded as the central process of Fenton chemistry, but a complete understanding requires consideration of supplementary reactions and pathways.
Key Parameters Influencing Fenton Process Efficiency
The overall degradation efficiency of organic pollutants during Fenton treatment is highly dependent on several critical operational factors:
Concentration of the Fenton reagents
Initial concentration of organic pollutants
Wastewater pH level (a particularly influential variable)
Optimized reaction conditions and dosage ratios
By controlling these variables, the Fenton process can be effectively tailored to maximize the breakdown of recalcitrant compounds in industrial and municipal wastewater streams.
