Research Project AOP plus: Advanced Oxidation Process meets Elimination of Microplastics

A promising approach for the removal of micropollutants from wastewater

In recent years, ever-increasing concentrations of harmful chemicals have been identified in wastewaters released into the environment. These chemicals are hazardous to both humans and aquatic biota. There is an urgent need to treat wastewater contaminated with toxic pollutants with appropriate treatment options.

In addition to activated carbon treatment, innovative technologies for oxidation of organic pollutants are proving promising. They are based on in-situ generation of strong oxidants such as hydroxyl and sulfate radicals.

Advanced oxidation processes (AOP) are an attractive and inexpensive way to effectively remove dissolved organic pollutants - so-called micropollutants - from wastewater. They are known to bridge the gap between treatability by traditional physicochemical and biological processes.

Some of the AOPs combine ozone and UV irradiation for better treatment efficiency. These AOP technologies are already established processes for drinking water treatment and water reuse. Several other AOPs such as electrochemical treatment, use of electron beams, plasma and microwaves, and ultrasound-related processes are under development and evaluation.