Ultraviolet activated persulfate based AOP for MTBE decomposition in aqueous solution

The widespread use of MTBE facilitates its entrance to the environment. Therefore, it is necessary to achieve a suitable method for the elimination of this carcinogenic contaminant. This study was conducted to investigate the MTBE removal from aqueous solution by ultraviolet activated persulfate (PS) based AOP. The solutions containing MTBE were synthesized at the concentrations of 10, 50 and 100 mg/L, and the rate of the removal efficiency was evaluated under the process conditions including pH: 3, 5, 7 and 9, PS concentration: 5, 10 and 20 mg/L and retention time: 30, 60, 120, 200 and 300 min. The results of this study showed that MTBE removal in the UV/PS process was pH dependent and the performance was better in neutral and acidic conditions. It was also found that, with increasing the PS concentration and decreasing initial MTBE concentration, better removal efficiency was achieved. Moreover, MTBE decomposition followed the first-order equation and this process was successful in reducing organic carbon. In conclusion, the UV/PS system can be considered as an effective process for eliminating the resistant pollutants such as MTBE.