Although the classical Fenton process exhibits a high initial rate of the organic compounds degradation, this process is not complete due to the formation of refractory compounds which resist the attack of the hydroxyl radicals. In the presence of Cu(II), the degradation is slower, but results in a greater reduction of TOC (total organic carbon) measurements of net mineralization at the end of the reaction (t=120min). The addition of Cu(II) ions to classical Fenton reaction conditions (Fe(II) plus H2O2 at pH 3) is shown to accelerate the degradation of organic compounds. This synergic effect causes an approximately 15% additional reduction of the TOC. Voltammetric studies confirm the catalytic role of catechol in the presence of Fe(III)/Fe(II) and Cu(II)/Cu(I). Addition of aliphatic acids to the reaction medium, did not interfere with the cupro-Fenton reaction, but had an inhibitory effect on the classical Fenton reaction, consistent with the following order of interaction with the ion Fe(III): Oxalic Acid (OA) >> Formic Acid (FA) ~ Acetic acid (AA).
Keywords:
phenol; copper ions and Fenton reaction
