Solar-Activated Chlorine Process for Efficient Degradation of Brominated Aromatic Pollutants

2,4,6-Tribromophenol (TBP) and its transformation product, 2,4,6-tribromoanisole (TBA), are characteristic brominated aromatic compounds frequently detected in various aquatic systems. Their presence in the aquatic environment is associated with the low efficiency of conventional treatment methods to remove them. It is well documented in the literature that they can cause several detrimental effects, including toxicity to aquatic microorganisms and the formation of unpleasant odours that deteriorate water quality. Therefore, the main aim of the present study is to investigate alternative methods for the removal of both compounds from different aqueous matrices. The solar/chlorine process is a representative advanced oxidation process (AOP) that has been studied in recent years due to its potential applicability compared with other methods in this category.

Accordingly, the solar/chlorine process was, for the first time, evaluated for its ability to simultaneously degrade both brominated aromatic compounds at environmentally relevant concentrations. To evaluate the efficiency of the process, a combination of analytical techniques and biological assays was employed. According to the results, the solar/chlorine process was effective for the simultaneous removal of both compounds. In particular, >80% removal was achieved in approximately 30-45 minutes. Moreover, no acute toxicity or genotoxic effects were observed at the end of the process against microalgae and human lymphocytes, respectively.

Acknowledgements

This paper has been financed by E.Y.D.A.P. within the framework of the IKY-EYDAP Scholarship program academic year 2022-23.