Reduction of the Organic Load of Industrial Wood Preserving Wastewater via Chemical Oxidation

Abstract

The efficacy of chemical oxidation as a wastewater treatment method for Stella Jones Inc. (Atlantic Canada) was evaluated using 3 chemical oxidants; Fenton’s Reagent, Modified Fenton’s and potassium permanganate. Reduction of the organic load and toxic compounds in the wastewater to increase the longevity of carbon filters was the end goal. Effectiveness was primarily based on the reduction of chemical oxygen demand (COD), and reduction of toxic and recalcitrant compounds including 18 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and pentachlorophenol (PCP). Fenton’s Reagent resulted in the greatest COD reduction of 86%. Modified Fenton’s and potassium permanganate resulted in improved reduction of PAHs with notable reductions seen in the larger ringed PAHs (4-6 rings). Low confidence in PCP results were noted. As PAHs were found in low concentrations in the wastewater, Fenton’s Reagent was chosen as the best treatment oxidant due to the overall reduction of the organic load of the wastewater.