Removal of trace organic compounds from wastewater by ultrasonic enhancement on adsorption

A series of sorbents were prepared and studied. Results showed that the ideal molar ratios of compositions were 1.0:10.5:13.5: 26.7 of Pt:Fe:Co:Mn at the experimental conditions, and supported on Al2O3, shorten as APFCM-3 sorbent in this study. Experimental results also showed that the APFCM-3 sorbent performed well to remove trace organic compounds (phenol as the typical reactant in this study) from synthesis wastewater, operating at room temperature and ambient pressure. Further study indicated that ultrasound could improve its performance during the adsorption process. Studies confirmed that the adsorptive ability of the APFCM-3 sorbent was slightly increased with increasing adsorptive temperature and ultrasonic power when the temperature range was from 30 to 60 °C and ultrasonic power from 60 W to 120 W. The optimized conditions of the adsorptive process were operated at 30 °C and 80 W according to experimental results with a view to energy conservation.