Application of Ozonation, UV Photolysis, Fenton Treatment and other Related Processes for Degradation of Ibuprofen and Sulfamethoxazole in Different Aqueous Matrices

Two pharmaceuticals ibuprofen (IBP) and sulfamethoxazole (SMX) were treated with ozone and advanced oxidation processes (AOPs): UV photolysis, O-3/H2O2, O-3/UV, O-3/H2O2/UV, H2O2/UV, the Fenton and photo-Fenton process. The efficacy of AOPs for degradation of pharmaceuticals as well as the impact of the matrix (pure water, urea and wastewater) on drugs' decay was evaluated. The experimental study has been carried out using concentration of the pharmaceuticals in the level of 100 mg/L. IBP was more resistant to all types of treatment than SMX. Ozonation was effective for removal of SMX and IBP when carried out under alkaline conditions. The ultimate elimination of SMX could be achieved with UV photolysis, whereas more rapid removal of IBP was attained with H2O2/UV. The complete SMX removal and more than 90% IBP degradation by the ordinary Fenton treatment were reached with oxidant overdosing only. Additional UV-radiation improved substantially the performance of the Fenton oxidation for elimination of both pharmaceuticals. The elimination rates determined in the pure water cannot be directly used to predict the oxidation of SMX and IBP in the wastewater.