Wastewater treatment and polymer degradation: Role of catalysts in advanced oxidation processes
Faith Osaretin Osabuohien, Gilbert Etiako Djanetey, Kenneth Nwaojei, Sarah Aduwa
Abstract
Effective management of wastewater treatment poses one of the enduring challenges within the environmental sphere, especially on the treatment of polymers, which are organic pollutants of concern. For this reason, the Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) are first being considered promising methods for these tasks because they employ highly active species like hydroxyl radicals for the destruction of these contaminants. Catalysts are of major importance since they increase the overall productivity of AOPs by increasing the rate of radical formation and aiding in the polymer’s breakage. This research investigates the use of certain catalytic materials, including metal oxides, carbon-based catalysts, and Nano structured composites in the treatment of wastewaters. Specifically, the studies focus on the mechanisms employed for the oxidative cleavage of polymers which results increased mineralization and detoxification of effluents. Different parameters such as the type of catalyst, operating conditions, and the nature of the pollutants are analyzed in regard to their impact on the effectiveness of degradation. Added, the results of having nanomaterials and bio-inspired catalysts integrated with traditional catalysts are elucidated to show improvement towards degradation efficiency and sustainability. This research illustrates the significance of catalyst design together with operational conditions for cost effective environmentally friendly treatment of wastewater. This research contributes to the growing field of sustainable water treatment by providing insights into the role of catalysts in AOPs, ultimately leading to cleaner water resources and reduced environmental contamination.