Degradation of Wheat Straw Black Liquor by Fenton and Photo-Fenton Processes

Abstract

The degradation of wheat straw black liquor (WSBL) by using Fenton's reagent is investigated. Also, the use of irradiation providing the conditions needed for the occurrence of photo-Fenton's reaction, along with the main parameters that govern the complex reactive system have been studied. Concentrations of Fe(II) between 20 and 1,000 ppm, and H₂O₂ between 500 and 2,000 ppm were chosen. The best results were obtained when using 1,500 ppm H₂O₂ and 200 ppm Fe(II) [12:1 molar ratio of H₂O₂ /Fe(II)]. The use of Fenton's and photo-Fenton's reactions has been proven to be highly effective for the treatment of such a type of wastewaters; and accordingly, the high levels of chemical oxygen demand (COD), aromatic content (UV₂₅₄), and lignin content (UV₂₈₀) removal.