Sonoelectrochemical oxidation of carbamazepine in waters: optimization using response surface methodology

BACKGROUND The decomposition of carbamazepine ( CBZ ) in synthetic solution and in municipal effluent was investigated using a sono‐electrochemical reactor. Sono‐electrolysis was conducted using two concentrical electrodes installed in a cylindrical reactor containing a ceramic transducer. RESULTS CBZ concentration ( C 0 =10 mg L −1 ) optimally diminished up to 90% by applying a current intensity of 4.86 A for 177 min and by imposing an ultrasound power of 38.29 W. The optimal conditions were subsequently applied for tertiary treatment of municipal wastewater effluent contaminated with 10 µg CBZ  L −1 . The reported removal efficiencies of CBZ , TOC , COD and colour were 93%, 60%, 93% and 86%, respectively. Likewise, the toxicity was completely removed (bacterium Vibrio fisheri ) from the municipal wastewater effluent (>96%). CONCLUSIONS The advantages of coupling ultrasonication and electrooxidation ( US‐EO ) treatment for CBZ removal were demonstrated. An experimental design methodology based on response surface methodology was applied to determine the optimal experimental conditions in terms of cost/effectiveness of removal. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry