UVH2O2

UVH2O2 is an advanced oxidation process used to oxidize recalcitrant organic contaminants in water and wastewater. It combines ultraviolet light with hydrogen peroxide; under UV irradiation, H2O2 photolyzes to yield hydroxyl radicals, highly reactive oxidants that attack a wide range of pollutants. The primary reaction is H2O2 + hv -> 2 •OH, and many systems rely on UV-C light around 254 nm, though broader-spectrum UV sources can also be used.

The process is applied to remove pharmaceuticals, pesticides, industrial organics, and precursors of disinfection byproducts, and is used for drinking water treatment, groundwater remediation, and wastewater polishing. UV/H2O2 systems are designed with specific H2O2 dosages and UV fluence based on water quality and target compounds. pH is typically near neutral; at high H2O2 doses or in waters with radical scavengers, efficiency can decline. The approach can be integrated with existing UV treatment trains and operated in various reactor configurations.

Advantages include rapid, non-selective oxidation of a broad range of contaminants and compatibility with conventional UV equipment. Disadvantages involve the need to handle and store hydrogen peroxide, potential formation of oxidation byproducts, and reduced performance in waters with high natural organic matter, carbonate, or halides that scavenge radicals. In practice, UV/H2O2 is often optimized alongside other treatment steps, with monitoring of contaminant reductions and byproducts to ensure safety and effectiveness.