Multi-objective optimization of the Fenton process for the treatment of soluble coffee wastewater

Abstract

The Fenton process for the treatment of wastewater coming from a soluble coffee industry in Colombia is evaluated. An experimental design of the Box-Behnken type and the response surface methodology were used to determine the values of operating parameters that allow achieving the highest reduction in chemical oxygen demand (COD) and/or color. The maximum values of COD and color reduction were 80.5% and 85.3%, respectively. Using an economic evaluation and the methodology of global desirability, the ideal operating conditions were determined to comply with both the environmental COD restriction of Colombian legislation and with the minimum operational costs. Based on the results of this study, one can see that Fenton process can be considered as a complete alternative or as an additional stage within a wastewater treatment scheme for the soluble coffee industry.