A comprehensive overview of microwave-assisted oxidation of industrial wastewaters

In the present study, recent progress in using microwave energy to enhance oxidative degradation of pollutants of poor biodegradability in industrial wastewaters is reviewed and evaluated, in order to assess the potential of microwave-induced oxidation as effective and viable remediation technique, alternative to conventional treatment procedures. Microwave radiation is actually emerging as an innovative technology, widely applied in various fields, as it offers many advantages for environmentally-friendlier processing. Microwave energy has already been employed in several environmental applications. In particular, the use of microwave technology to to overcome intrinsic drawbacks and improve oxidation/degradation methods for various wastes appears to be a challenging scientific area. Certainly, the oxidation efficiency is influenced by key operating factors including the microwave equipment and power level, irradiation time and temperature, oxidizing agent and catalyst loading, aeration, pH and initial pollutant concentration. In conclusion, microwave irradiation can contribute to enhancing the oxidation process, thus accelerating pollutant purification reactions, decreasing the consumption of chemicals and destroying microorganisms at low temperatures.