Abstract

Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) are a growing research field with a large variety of different process variants and materials being tested at laboratory scale. However, despite extensive research in recent years and decades, many variants have not been transitioned to pilot- and full-scale operation. One major concern are the inconsistent experimental approaches applied across different studies that impede identification, comparison, and upscaling of the most promising AOPs. The aim of this tutorial review is to streamline future studies on the development of new solutions and materials for advanced oxidation by providing guidance for comparable and scalable oxidation experiments. We discuss recent developments in catalytic, ozone-based, radiation-driven, and other AOPs, and outline future perspectives and research needs. Since standardized experimental procedures are not available for most AOPs, we propose basic rules and key parameters for lab-scale evaluation of new AOPs including selection of suitable probe compounds and scavengers for the measurement of (major) reactive species. A two-phase approach to assess new AOP concepts is proposed, consisting of (i) basic research and proof-of-concept (technology readiness levels (TRL) 1–3), followed by (ii) process development in the intended water matrix including a cost comparison with an established process, applying comparable and scalable parameters such as UV fluence or ozone consumption (TRL 3–5). Subsequent demonstration of the new process (TRL 6–7) is briefly discussed, too. Finally, we highlight important research tools for a thorough mechanistic process evaluation and risk assessment including screening for transformation products that should be based on chemical logic and combined with complementary tools (mass balance, chemical calculations).

Original languageEnglish
Article numbere30402
JournalHeliyon
Volume10
Issue number9
Early online date28 Apr 2024
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 15 May 2024

Funding

This study was initiated from the Expert Committee \u201COxidative Processes\u201D of the German Water Chemistry Society. We gratefully thank Emil Bein and Neboj\u0161a Ili\u0107 for their feedback and input in different subsections and Nenad Stojanovic for his tremendous help with illustration of Fig. 1. Dr. Gernjak would like to acknowledge funding obtained from the Spanish State Research Agency of the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation and the European Union \u201CNextGenerationEU\u201D programme for the project reclaimONEwater, Project code: TED2021-132823B-I00; MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 and the European Union \u201CNextGenerationEU\u201D/PRTR, as well as the Generalitat de Catalu\u00F1a for funding through the Consolidated Research Group Grant ICRA-Tech 2021-SGR-01283 and the CERCA program.

FundersFunder number
Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovacion
Agencia Estatal de Investigación
German Water Chemistry Society
European CommissionMCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033, TED2021-132823B-I00
Departament de Salut - Generalitat de CatalunyaICRA-Tech 2021-SGR-01283

Keywords

  • Advanced oxidation processes
  • Experimental design
  • Probe compounds
  • Trace organic chemicals
  • Water treatment

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General

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