Use of a pulsed high-voltage discharge for removal of organic compounds inaqueous solution

Results obtained using a pulsed-streamer corona discharge for organic compo und removal are reported in this investigation. The removal of phenol and t he effects of various parameters on the removal efficiency were studied. Th e intermediate products and final byproducts were also studied. It was foun d that the organic contaminants in aqueous solution could be destroyed effe ctively by the pulsed-streamer corona discharge and that the organic compou nd removal was greatly influenced by gas injection (bubbling). In addition, a preliminary study of the reaction mechanism was performed. Byproducts we re determined for phenol removal. The main intermediate products produced b y the pulsed-voltage discharge during the treatment process were hydroquino ne, pyrocatechol and 1,4-benzoquinone. These intermediate products disappea red when the residence time was increased. By analysing the total carbon co ntent of the treated phenol solution, it was found that 83% of the total or ganic carbon was removed without oxygen bubbling and 86% was removed with o xygen bubbling. Carbon dioxide emitted in the gas phase was measured by an absorption method.