Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Industrial Wastewater
摘要
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) belong to a group of organic pollutants known for their persistence in the environment and frequently detected in industrial wastewater, attributed to their extensive application in the petrochemical, pharmaceutical and manufacturing sectors. These compounds pose significant threats to environmental and human health due to their carcinogenic, mutagenic, and toxic properties. Industrial activities like fossil fuel combustion, coal processing and petroleum refining result in elevated PAH levels in wastewater, potentially causing aquatic pollution and bioaccumulation in living organisms. Traditional approaches to treating wastewater, including coagulation, sedimentation, and biological methods, are frequently ineffective in fully removing PAHs. Considering the negative impacts of PAHs, it is crucial to identify and remove these compounds from water through dependable methods. A range of physical, chemical and biological approaches for the treatment of PAH-contaminated water has been explored. This chapter examined the occurrence of PAHs in industrial wastewater, their detrimental impacts on organisms, and the treatment approaches employed to address them. Future investigations ought to concentrate on creating economical and environmentally sustainable methods to address PAH contamination, thereby safeguarding both environmental integrity and public health.