Advanced Oxidation Processes for the Treatment of Biorecalcitrant Organics in Wastewater

Biorecalcitrant organic pollutants pose a threat to the aquatic environment due to their several detrimental traits. A host of industries as well as municipal facilities are liable to discharge such pollutants. These pollutants cannot be effectively managed by conventional biological and/or physiochemical treatment methods. Advanced oxidation processes, based on very strongly oxidizing free radicals such as hydroxyl radicals, have been found to be effective in destroying these pollutants often leading to their mineralization. This paper attempts to summarize the present state and emerging trends in advanced oxidation based treatment techniques. Reaction chemistries, process conditions, treatment efficiencies, and material and energy inputs required have been discussed.