Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate Removal by Oxidative Ozonation Coupled with UV/H2O2 Oxidative Process

Abstract

In this study, the results of the application of advanced oxidative processes to remove linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS) from wastewater produced in the laundry industry are presented. Photocatalysis with UV radiation and oxygen peroxide (H2O2) was applied followed by ozonation (O3). LAS removal was higher than 90% in the first 60 min. H2O2 application based on COD reached its most effective concentration for the rate of [1:2.5] with O3 acting as a polishing agent. Excessive foam formation caused by the bubbling effect led to the necessity of introducing a lag into the process, retarding the O3 application in 30 min. Therefore, complete oxidation was achieved with a low concentration of LAS, and no foam was observed by the end of the process. The best COD removal results were achieved when low doses of H2O2 were applied. Using UV/H2O2/O3, 51.2% removal was achieved.