Phenol removal using zero-valent iron powder in the presence of dissolved oxygen: Roles of decomposition by the Fenton reaction and adsorption/precipitation

► The mechanism for removal of phenol by zero valent iron (ZVI) was examined. ► The cumulative amount of OH radical production in the ZVI process was measured. ► The generation of OH radicals proved the decomposition by the Fenton reaction. ► The mechanism for decrease in total organic carbon changed with pH and oxygen.