Evaluating the photo-catalytic application of Fenton's reagent augmented with TiO₂ and ZnO for the mineralization of an oil-water emulsion

Abstract

In the present study, homogenous (photo-Fenton) and heterogeneous photo-assisted systems (Fenton/TiO₂/UV, Fenton/ZnO/UV and Fenton/TiO₂/UV/Air) were investigated for the treatment of a diesel-oil wastewater emulsion. The augmentation of the photo-Fenton process by heterogeneous TiO₂ increased the reaction rate, in terms of COD reduction efficiency from 61% to 71%. Furthermore, the COD removal efficiency was increased to 84% when air was bubbled through the reactants. However, if the Fenton/TiO₂ /UV/Air process is to be utilized as a treatment for this wastewater, the separation of the TiO₂ from the treated effluent would need further consideration.

Keywords:

• Photo-catalytic mineralization
• diesel oil
• ultraviolet radiation
• photo-Fenton
• TiO₂
• ZnO

Acknowledgments

Financial support from the Ministry of Higher Education, Egypt, through the channel scheme mission from the mission department is gratefully acknowledged. The authors are also grateful to Mr. P. Kearney for his technical assistance.