Comparative study of the oxidation efficiency of wastewater from the petrochemical industry through the Fenton process and ozonation, Lima, 2023

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to assess and compare how well the Fenton and ozonation processes can clean wastewater from the petrochemical industry in Lima, 2023. Methods: A practical research approach with a semi-experimental design was used to ensure careful data gathering and examination. Results: The physical and chemical analysis of the wastewater showed that important factors, such as pH, Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), and oil and grease (O&G), were above the Maximum Allowable Values (MAV) set by environmental rules. The Fenton process showed moderate to high removal rates, achieving reductions of 40% for BOD, 28% for COD, and 57% for O&G. In contrast, the ozonation process had lower effectiveness, with maximum removal rates of 22%, 12%, and 28% for BOD, COD, and O&G, respectively. Conclusions: Statistical tests confirmed significant differences in treatment effectiveness over time. Moreover, the cost analysis showed that the Fenton process was more economical compared to ozonation. Based on the test results, the Fenton method is suggested as a better and more cost-efficient option for cleaning petrochemical wastewater, helping to enhance environmental management practices in industrial areas.