Degradation of Recalcitrant Chlorinated Organics by Radiochemical and Biochemical Oxidation

Abstract

AOX removal from pulp and paper industry wastewater with traditional methods is still very difficult. A novel application, irradiation by high energy electron beam (EB), is investigated and 40% and 70% AOX removals were obtained by 10 kGy and 50 kGy dosages, respectively. Further removals are possible at higher dosages. Chemical pre-treatment had no significant effect on overall AOX removal by EB-treatment, while biological post-treatment removed AOX further. Practical applications at large pulp and paper plants are considered, and further research on the application of EB-treatment on concentrated effluents or sludges is recommended.