In the quest for sustainable industrial practices, a groundbreaking study led by Julie Joseane Murcia-Mesa from the Universidad Pedagógica y Tecnológica de Colombia (UPT) has shed new light on the effectiveness of advanced oxidation technologies (AOTs) and biological treatments for industrial wastewater recovery. The research, published in the Revista Facultad de Ingeniería Universidad de Antioquia, explores the potential of these methods to transform industrial effluents into reusable water, a critical need for industries, especially those in the energy sector.
The study evaluated several AOTs, including TiO₂/UV-VIS, H₂O₂-UV-VIS, and TiO₂/H₂O₂/UV-VIS, alongside biological treatments using a commercial bacteria strain. The experiments were conducted in both a laboratory reactor and a 120 L/s pilot plant powered by solar energy, showcasing a commitment to both innovation and sustainability.
Murcia-Mesa and her team found that while biological treatment significantly reduced total hydrocarbons, sulfates, total organic carbon (TOC), and other contaminants, the combined use of UV-VIS/H₂O₂/TiO₂ as AOTs proved even more effective. “The application of UV-VIS/H₂O₂/TiO₂ as combined treatments is more effective than biological treatment and individual AOTs,” Murcia-Mesa stated, highlighting the superior performance of the combined AOTs in reducing parameters such as conductivity, chlorides, nitrates, and heavy metals.
The research also revealed that a sequential treatment approach—first applying AOTs followed by biological treatment—yielded the best results. This method enhanced the removal of contaminants like chlorides, heavy metals (Fe, Pb), nitrates, and hardness, suggesting a synergistic effect between the two treatment types.
For the energy sector, these findings are particularly compelling. Industrial wastewater treatment is a significant cost and environmental challenge. By implementing these advanced technologies, energy companies can not only reduce their environmental footprint but also recover valuable water resources. This could lead to substantial cost savings and improved sustainability metrics, aligning with the growing demand for eco-friendly practices in the industry.
The implications of this research extend beyond the energy sector. The recovered water could be used for various purposes, including crops irrigation, further promoting sustainable water management practices. As Murcia-Mesa noted, “The sequential combination of AOTs and biological treatment is an effective strategy for the recovery of industrial wastewater, achieving a greater reduction of contaminants compared to the application of each treatment separately.”
The study, published in the Faculty of Engineering Journal of the University of Antioquia, underscores the potential of integrating advanced oxidation technologies with biological treatments. As industries continue to seek innovative solutions for wastewater management, this research provides a promising pathway towards more efficient and sustainable practices. The findings could inspire further developments in the field, driving the adoption of these technologies across various industries and contributing to a more sustainable future.
