Catalysis and Chemical Engineering Global Conference

Catalysis is at the forefront of innovation in wastewater treatment, opening up sustainable solutions that enhance contaminant removal and improve water quality. Various catalytic technologies in wastewater treatment break down pollutants, recover valuable resources, and make water reusable in both industrial and municipal applications. This session will cover the different catalytic methods employed in wastewater treatment, emphasizing their environmental benefits and role in sustainable water management.

Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) are among the leading innovations in wastewater catalysis. These processes use catalysts, such as titanium dioxide or iron, to generate reactive species like hydroxyl radicals, which are instrumental in degrading organic contaminants. A particular form of AOP, photocatalysis, utilizes sunlight or UV light combined with catalysts to break down pollutants, making it highly efficient in removing pharmaceuticals, dyes, and other persistent organic compounds. Photocatalysis not only enhances water quality but also aligns with green chemistry principles, as it leverages renewable energy sources for pollutant degradation.

Catalytic ozonation is another crucial technology in wastewater treatment. In this process, ozone—an exceptionally strong oxidizing agent—is combined with catalysts to facilitate and speed up the oxidation of pollutants. Catalytic ozonation is particularly effective in eliminating pollutants resistant to conventional treatments, such as endocrine disruptors and pesticides. This technology reduces the required ozone quantity and energy consumption by using catalysts to improve ozonation efficiency.

Electrocatalysis is gaining popularity for treating metal-heavy wastewater and other inorganic pollutants. During this process, an electric current applied to a catalyst-coated electrode promotes oxidation or reduction of pollutants. Electrocatalysis is especially valuable in industrial wastewater treatment, as recovered metals can be reused, thereby purifying water and recycling valuable materials. Using electricity from renewable sources such as solar or wind power can further enhance the environmental sustainability of electrocatalysis.