Advanced Oxidation Processes for Organic Contaminant Destruction Based on the Fenton Reaction and Related Chemistry

Fenton chemistry encompasses reactions of hydrogen peroxide in the presence of iron to generate highly reactive species such as the hydroxyl radical and possibly others. In this review, the complex mechanisms of Fenton and Fenton-like reactions and the important factors influencing these reactions, from both a fundamental and practical perspective, in applications to water and soil treatment, are discussed. The review covers modified versions including the photoassisted Fenton reaction, use of chelated iron, electro-Fenton reactions, and Fenton reactions using heterogeneous catalysts. Sections are devoted to nonclassical pathways, by-products, kinetics and process modeling, experimental design methodology, soil and aquifer treatment, use of Fenton in combination with other advanced oxidation processes or biodegradation, economic comparison with other advanced oxidation processes, and case studies.

KEYWORDS:

• advanced oxidation technologies
• aquifier remediation
• electro-Fenton
• photo-Fenton
• soil remediation
• waste treatment
• water treatment

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The authors appreciate the input of Dr. Stefan H. Bossmann (Kansas State University, Department of Chemistry) in the early stages of preparation of this article. Funding by the U.S. National Science Foundation (Bioengineering Systems) is greatfully acknowledged by JJP.