Enhanced transformation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons using a combined Fenton's reagent, microbial treatment and surfactants.

The potential for using Fenton's reagent (H(2)O(2)+ Fe(2+)) as an advanced oxidation pretreatment process to enhance microbial transformation of two model polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, anthracene and benzo[a]pyrene, in an aqueous system was evaluated. Fenton's reagent at a concentration of 0.5% H(2)O(2) and 10 mM Fe(2+) (molar ratio, 15:1) was most effective in transforming anthracene at pH 4. Application of non-ionic surfactants during Fenton's pre-treatment was found to be more effective in the transformation of both anthracene and benzo[a]pyrene. The extent of removal of substrates by a combined Fenton's-biotreatment was 2-4 times higher than with Fenton's treatment or biotreatment alone. In a chemical-biological treatment train, 48 h of Fenton's pre-treatment in the presence of a non-ionic surfactant, followed by 7 days of biological treatment resulted in 80-85% removal of PAHs (100 ppm).