Advances in Analytical Methods for the Monitoring of Chemical Pollutants in Industrial Effluent Water

Population growth has increased industrial development, which translates into negative environmental impacts. The increased demand for water by industrial sectors has increased water pollution with hazardous substances such as chemicals, heavy metals, oils, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and other industrial by-products. Therefore, it is necessary to analyze industrial wastewater effluents to quantify chemical contaminants and determine the appropriate treatment process. Some of the current and reliable methods for water analysis are chromatography, mass spectrometry, spectroscopy, electrochemical techniques, and the use of sensors. On the other hand, scientific and technological advances have allowed the improvement of these analytical techniques to obtain precise results, as well as more economical and safer procedures. Thus, this chapter deals with the scope, application, safety, equipment, costs, advances, and modifications of the techniques used for the detection and quantification of chemical contaminants present in industrial wastewater.