HYDROGEN PEROXIDE CATALYTIC OXIDATION OF REFRACTORY ORGANICS IN MUNICIPAL WASTE WATERS

Hydrogen peroxide catalytic oxidation of organic residuals in municipal waste waters involves a free radical (·OH) oxidation and is effective only in a 3 to 5 pH range. Both ferric and ferrous salts are efficient catalysts, but the ferric system requires elevated temperature. Oxidation efficiencies of approximately 60% are achieved for stoichiometric charges of hydrogen peroxide to chemical oxygen demand (COD) of the waste water. The oxidation process preferentially attacks alkyl benzene sulfonate with 98% removal, and oxidizes from 30 to 65% of the total organic carbon to carbon dioxide. It also reduces the COD of water from carbon treatment systems by 50 to 65% of the initial COD. Autoxidation occurs in the oxidation process, but with average chain lengths of less than six oxidation events per initiation event. A more economical source of free radical (·OH) without a restricted pH range is needed for practical application. © 1968, American Chemical Society. All rights reserved.