Investigation of BTEX removal efficiency using the electrolytic oxidation and Fenton’s reaction

Abstract

The removal of benzene, toluene, ethyl benzene, and xylene (BTEX) using the electrolytic oxidation or Fenton’s reaction has been studied. The value of current and pH value were shown to produce a significant effect on electrolytic oxidation of BTEX. More than 95% of BTEX could be removed at 500 mA current within 8 hours. In the case of Fenton’s reaction it was established that more than 95% of BTEX could be removed at pH 4 with an addition of hydrogen peroxide in the amount of 12 mg/dm3. The treatment cost based on electrolytic oxidation amounted to between $0.04 and $5.1 USD/m3. For Fenton’s reaction, the treatment cost was between $0.16 and $0.65/m3. The costs of electrolytic oxidation and Fenton’s reaction were similar to the cost of electrodialysis and cheaper than the freeze–thaw and evaporation; however, these costs were higher than for air flotation and the use of anoxic/aerobic granular activated carbon.