Purification of Wastewater Using Chemical Oxidation Based on Hydroxyl Radicals

This paper reviews advanced oxidation processes (AOP) such as Fenton and Fenton-like reactions, photo-assisted Fenton processes, photocatalysis and photolysis. All AOP are characterised by participation of highly reactive •OH radicals, which are useful in degradation of organic pollutants. Organic radicals are generated by photolysis of organic matrix or by reaction with •OH. The radical intermediates subsequently react with dissolved oxygen affording peroxy radicals and peroxides, which accelerate the overall degradation process, and lead to total mineralization.