Efficient use of ferrate(VI) in the oxidative removal of potassium hydrogen phthalate from aqueous solutions

Abstract

The aim of this study is to assess the applicability of ferrate(VI) in the efficient treatment of aqueous waste contaminated with potassium hydrogen phthalate (KHP) which is known to be a potent endocrine disrupting chemicals. Simulated batch reactor operations were conducted at a wide range of pH (7.0 to 12.0) and molar ratios of KHP to ferrate(VI). Kinetic studies were performed in the degradation process and overall rate constant was found to be 83.40 L/mol/min at pH 8.0. The stoichiometry of ferrate(VI) and KHP was found to be 1:1. Further, lower pH values and higher KHP concentrations were favoured greatly the degradation of KHP by ferrate(VI). Total organic carbon analysis showed that partial mineralization of KHP was achieved. The presence of several background electrolytes were studied in the degradation of KHP by ferrate(VI).