Análise comparativa de processos oxidativos avançados em tratamento de efluentes e águas residuárias

Abstract

Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs) constitute an efficient alternative for the treatment of effluents containing recalcitrant organic compounds, commonly found in industrial, hospital, and domestic wastewater. This Undergraduate Thesis aims to conduct a literature review of the main AOPs currently in use, focusing on a comparative analysis of their efficiencies, advantages, disadvantages, and ideal application conditions. As a methodological contribution, a logical algorithm is proposed, based on technical criteria extracted from the literature, to assist in the selection of the most appropriate AOP for different effluent profiles. Five widely referenced processes in academic studies and industrial applications were selected: Fenton's Reagent, Photo-Fenton, Ozonation, UV/H₂O₂, and heterogeneous photocatalysis with TiO₂/UV. Each technology is presented based on its mechanism of action, the type of contaminant treated, operational requirements (such as pH, turbidity, and the presence of organic matter), and its limitations. The research also includes a critical discussion on economic aspects, secondary environmental impacts, such as the generation of sludge or toxic byproducts, and infrastructure limitations that may affect practical implementation. The developed logical algorithm is theoretical and is based exclusively on information present in scientific and technical literature. The decision logic considers criteria such as the initial pH of the effluent, the degree of turbidity, the presence of heavy metals or persistent organic matter, the availability of equipment (such as a UV source, ozone generator, or catalysts), and available financial resources. Based on these variables, the algorithm proposes a sequence of decisions that results in the choice of the most suitable AOP, considering the best relationship between viability and efficiency for the analyzed scenario. Although the algorithm has not been experimentally validated, its theoretical formulation was constructed based on reliable sources, including scientific articles, theses, dissertations, technical reports, and industrial application data. The results indicate that the choice of the ideal AOP is directly dependent on the specific characteristics of the effluent and the operational context. It is concluded that AOPs are versatile and effective tools for treating complex effluents, representing a promising solution in terms of efficiency and sustainability. The proposed logical algorithm can serve as a starting point for future practical applications, including in computerized systems, offering support for technical decision-making in projects related to environmental sanitation and liquid waste management.