UV/H2O2/Ferrioxalate Based Integrated Approach to Decolorize and Mineralize Reactive Blue Dye: Optimization Through Response Surface Methodology

Abstract

Abstract The decolorization and mineralization of Reactive Blue 222 dye was studied using UV/H2O2/ferrioxalate approach in combination with Pleorotus ostreatus. The dye was decolorized by UV/H2O2/ferrioxalate based advanced oxidation process (AOP) at different levels of process variables dye concentration, catalyst dose, pH, reaction time and resultantly, 80% decolorization was achieved. Pleorotus ostreatus treatment enhanced the dye degradation up to 92% at optimum levels of pH, temperature, inoculum size, carbon and nitrogen sources at specific concentration. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was employed for optimization under face-centered central composite design (CCD). Although both treatments were found efficient for the removal of dye, but on applying the integrated approach, 96% dye removal was obtained which led to complete degradation of the dye. FTIR analysis confirmed the degradation of dye into low mass compounds. The water quality assurance parameters were measured to assess the mineralization efficiency. A significant reduction in COD (94%) and TOC (92%) were found when dye was degraded integrated approach. A phytotoxicity analysis on Pisum sativum plant revealed the non-toxic behavior of metabolites produced. Results revealed that the integrated approach is highly promising for the decolorization and mineralization of the Reactive Blue 222 dye and is also extendable to treat the dye in textile wastewater.