Ultrasonic bath with longitudinal vibrations: a novel configuration for efficient wastewater treatment
Abstract
Efficacy of a novel configuration for large-scale wastewater treatment applications has been investigated using formic acid degradation as a model reaction. The reactor is first characterized using energy efficiency measurements and the optimum operating volume for maximum transfer of supplied energy and hence maximum cavitational effects has been established. Effect of initial concentration of the pollutant on the rates of degradation has been investigated. Comparison has been also made with the conventional ultrasonic horn in terms of energy efficiency and cavitational yield for the model reaction. With an aim of possible reduction in the total treatment time, some intensification studies have been undertaken considering hydrogen peroxide as an additional source of free radicals.