Chapter 27 - Fenton with zero-valent iron nanoparticles (nZVI) processes: Role of nanomaterials

Abstract

The Fenton reaction with nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI) is a promising heterogeneous catalytic process for degradation of organic and inorganic pollutants in wastewater. The Fenton-like methods are being extensively investigated and have been found to be very effective and efficient for treatment of industrial wastewater. Because of the need for energy efficient wastewater treatment, an overview of the research progress of Fenton-like methods is required to establish an innovative and high performance method of treating emerging and recalcitrant pollutants. This chapter addresses the importance of zero-valent iron (ZVI) in the treatment of wastewater, the various methods of synthesis for nZVI (e.g., chemical, sonochemical, biological approaches), and the influence of process parameters (such as temperature, pH, and concentration) on the formation of nZVI particles. Also, the applications of ZVI particles for mineralization of recalcitrant pollutants from wastewater though heterogeneous Fenton reaction has been discussed thoroughly including current and new approaches for using nZVI as a potential catalyst in Fenton reaction for the treatment of industrial wastewaters.