https://doi.org/10.15255/KUI.2022.008
Published: Kem. Ind. 71 (11-12) (2022) 719–727
Paper reference number: KUI-08/2022
Paper type: Review
Download paper:  PDF

Combined Application of Membrane and Advanced Oxidation Processes for Removal of Pharmaceuticals from Water

J. Papac Zjačić, S. Morović, K. Košutić and D. Ašperger

Abstract

The presence of pharmaceuticals in the aquatic environment is problematic in many aspects, mainly due to their specific mode of action, and physical and chemical properties that make them highly resistant to degradation. This new group of contaminants is frequently detected in conventional wastewater treatment plants. Removal of pharmaceuticals from water by primary and secondary methods (filtration, sedimentation, biological treatment) is not satisfactory, therefore advanced methods involving membrane and advanced oxidation processes are increasingly being developed. The most significant advantage of membrane technologies is their wide industrial applicability while maintaining the highest water standards. Advanced oxidation processes can effectively decompose complex pollutants into simpler ones, and mineralize organic pollutants in wastewater without generating secondary waste. In order to improve their advantages, but also to eliminate disadvantages, these technologies are increasingly complemented and combined, resulting in higher efficiency in removing pharmaceuticals from water and reducing their toxicity.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License

Keywords

pharmaceuticals, water pollution, membrane processes, advanced oxidation processes, hybrid systems for water treatment