Oxidative decolorization of dyes in aqueous medium

Options for preventing discharge of color into the environment are discusse d with emphasis on oxidative destruction of residual color in spent dyebath s and wastewater. Ozone, hydrogen peroxide activated by ultraviolet light, and Fenton's Reagent are all powerful oxidants that are effective for the d estruction of dyes in aqueous medium. The variables affecting use of each o xidant for decolorization of spent dyebath water or dyehouse wastewater is discussed. A literature review of studies of the decomposition products of textile dyes treated with ozone is included. Issues concerning pollution pr evention in textile wet processing are discussed and the merits of pollutio n prevention versus end-of-pipe treatment of wastewater are examined.