Removal of Bisphenol A from aqueous solutions using ultrasonic waves and hydrogen peroxide

Efficiency of technologies using ultrasonic waves superimposed with hydrogen peroxide for the removal of Bisphenol A (BPA) from the aqueous solution was well studied and investigated. BPA is a non-biodegradable antioxidant, which was highly resistant to the biological and chemical breakdown; the non-biodegradability of the dye made it noxious and hazardous material for the both aquatic flora as well as fauna. Tests were done at two levels i.e. ultrasonic power 300 and 500 W; frequencies of 35 and 130 kHz respectively and at the optimum pH levels of 3, 7 and 11. Hydrogen peroxide levels were tested at concentrations of 5, 15 and 30 mg/l. Obtained results demonstrated that the efficiency of BPA breakdown using a process combining ultrasonic waves assisted by hydrogen peroxide was more effective than separately applied processes. The highest rate of decomposition was achieved at the frequency of 130 kHz and 500 W assisted by 30 mg/l H2O2 at pH level 11. The removal efficiency of BPA in natural samples decreased compared to efficiency in synthetic samples. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.