A comparative study of metronidazole removal from aqueous solution by Fenton oxidation process: optimization and statistical methodology
摘要
The present research paper aimed to study the removal of an antibiotic by an advanced oxidation process–Fenton process—from aqueous solution, focusing on the optimization of relational parameters using two approaches: a classical (one-at-a-time variables) and statistical method (Box-Behnken). The experimental conditions were optimized based on pH medium, Fe2⁺ concentration, and H₂O₂ dosage. The results highlighted that the optimal conditions determined via one-at-a-time variables were a pH medium of 3, a catalyst dose of 8 mg L−1, and a hydrogen peroxide content of 300 mg L−1, achieving a Metronidazole removal efficiency of 79% in 15 min. In contrast, the Box-Behnken Design provided a significant quadratic polynomial model (R2 = 0.94%), ensuring a maximum Metronidazole elimination yield of 83.06% with a pH medium of 3, [H2O2] = 311.11 mg L−1 and [Fe2+] = 12.27 mg L−1. Simplified condition; pHmedium = 3, [H2O2] = 300 mg L−1, and [Fe2+] = 10 mg L−1; achieved a comparable efficiency of 82%. The obtained findings demonstrate that the Box-Behnken proved to be more efficient, requiring fewer experimental runs in a short time and providing useful data about the interaction between variables, an advantage not adequately addressed by the traditional approach. The Fenton process showed promising results for metronidazole removal, making its application in pharmaceutical waste treatment and wastewater management highly recommended.