Microalgae-induced Photodegradation of Bisphenol F under Simulated Sunlight

Like BPA, bisphenol F (BPF) was used in the production of epoxy resins and polycarbonates and it was shown to be a xenoestrogen. The photodegradation of bisphenol F (BPF) in the presence of algae was investigated under the irradiation of metal halide lamps placed in cooling trap for maintaining constant temperature by water circulation (lambda >= 365 nm, 250 W). The effect of algae concentration, initial pH value, concentration of humic acid and ferric ions, gas medium were investigated. The results showed that algae can enhance the photodegradation of BPF. The photodegradation rate of BPF increased with increasing algae concentration. Humic acid and Fe3+ ions also enhanced the photodegradation of BPF. The effect of pH value on the BPF photodegradation was important in the present of algae, humic acid and ferric ions. This work helps environmental scientists to understand the photochemical behavior of BPF in simulated lake water.