A statistical experimental design approach for photochemical degradation of aqueous polyacrylic acid using photo-Fenton-like process

The present study investigates the degradation of poly(acrylic acid) in aqueous solution by a photo-Fenton-like process. Batch experiments are carried out to model and optimize the process. The effects of the initial concentration of poly(acrylic acid), the initial concentration of Fe3+, and the H2O2 dosage as independent variables on the total organic carbon (TOC) removal as the response function are studied using response surface methodology (RSM). The significance of the independent variables and their interactions are tested by means of analysis of variance (ANOVA) with 95% confidence level. The statistical analysis of the results indicated satisfactory prediction of the system behavior by the developed model. The optimum operating conditions to achieve maximum TOC removal are also determined. The model prediction for maximum TOC removal is compared to the experimental result at optimal operating conditions. A good agreement between the model prediction and experimental results confirms the reliability of the developed model.