Optimization of the Electro-Fenton Process for the Elimination of Oxytetracycline Antibiotic from Water: Degradation/Mineralization Kinetics.

The Electro-Fenton process is an electrochemical advanced oxidation method based on electrocatalytic in situ production of hydroxyl radicals (•OH). The decontamination of water polluted by Oxytetracycline (OTC) as being a toxic and persistent organic contaminant was carried out by the Electro-Fenton process (EF). Using a platinum anode and a carbon felt, many experiments have been carried out while studying the effect of several parameters on the efficiency of EF such as the applied current, the concentration of the catalyst, and the initial concentration of OTC. The degradation kinetics were studied and monitored by HPLC during electrolysis using an OTC initial concentration of 0.03 mM, 500 mA as applied current, and 0.1 mM of Fe²⁺ as optimal parameters. As for the mineralization, the chemical oxygen demand COD gave a reduction rate greater than 97% for 500 mA and 0.2 mM of Fe²⁺. The identification of some intermediate compounds was carried out by HPLC and LC-MS/MS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]