Enhanced oxidation of sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate aqueous solution using ozonation catalyzed by base treated zeolite

This study analyzed the effect of zeolites present during the ozonation of aqueous solutions containing the surfactant sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate (SDBS). Two commercial zeolites and a basic zeolite synthesized in our laboratory were used to determine the role of these adsorbents as potential catalysts of ozone decomposition, investigating the influence of the textural and chemical properties of the zeolites on ozone and SDBS decomposition. Basic zeolites with large surface area and micropore volume showed superior SDBS oxidation outcomes. SDBS adsorption on zeolites is negligible during ozonation, and this enhanced SDBS oxidation derives from the generation of hydroxyl radicals by O3/zeolite interaction. The hydrophobicity and acidity of zeolites proved to be negative factors for ozone decomposition, since they stabilize O3 molecules in aqueous solution.

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► The removal rate of ozone in aqueous phase increased with the amount of zeolite.
► Ozone consumption is related to the acid/basic character, hydrophobicity, and porous structure of the zeolite.
► In comparison to acid zeolites, basic zeolites showed a greater catalytic capacity and lower ozone consumption.