Advanced Physicochemical Techniques for Wastewater Treatment

Abstract

This chapter provides an overview of advanced physicochemical techniques (APCTs) used in wastewater treatment, highlighting their principles, applications, and recent advancements. The chapter begins by discussing the APCTs involved in wastewater treatment, including membrane techniques, electrochemical methods, sonochemical treatment, microwave-assisted processes, hybrid processes, and green chemistry approaches. It explores the mechanisms by which these processes remove suspended solids, colloidal particles, and other contaminants from wastewater. The APCTs are versatile and can be applied to treat wastewater containing diverse pollutants, including heavy metals, organic compounds, and microorganisms. This versatility makes them suitable for various industrial and municipal wastewater streams. These methods are designed to target specific contaminants, resulting in the effective treatment and purification of wastewater. These techniques can be integrated with conventional wastewater treatment processes, enhancing overall treatment efficiency. Ongoing research and development in APCTs contribute to continuous innovation, leading to the discovery of new and improved methods for wastewater treatment. The chapter presents case studies and discusses the advantages, limitations, and future prospects of APCTs. © 2024 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.