Simulation study of phenol degradation by Fenton process using ASPEN-Plus

Abstract

Present study deals with the simulation of the Fenton’s process for the removal of phenol using ASPEN-Plus. The effect of phenol concentration, catalyst loading, mole ratio of H₂O₂ to iron ion, and temperature on the phenol degradation rate has been studied using the developed process flow diagram. The result shows higher flow rate of hydrogen peroxide (4.2 kmol/h) favours phenol degradation (98%) since the hydroxyl radical availability rises. Increase in catalyst loading (186 g) and rise in mole ratio of hydrogen peroxide to iron ion (~1) improves the removal of phenol (~97%) from wastewater since the hydroxyl radical formation improves and thus affect the mechanism and chemical kinetics of Fenton reaction. Increase in temperature improves the degradation, however high temperature above optimum condition (32.5°C) does not favour the degradation of phenol.