THE DEGRADATION OF ORANGE II USING SULFATE RADICALS ACTIVATED BY SUPPORTED COBALT OXIDE UNDER ULTRASOUND ENHANCED WITH AERATION

A novel heterogeneous catalytic system, employing sulfate radicals activated by supported cobalt oxide (Co3O4), was applied to degrade the Orange II from aqueous solution. The catalyst of cobalt oxide supported on the surface of graphene oxide (Co3O4/GO) was prepared and characterized by XRD and TEM. Ultrasound (US) and aeration applied were introduced into the system, and the possible beneficial effects were assessed. The heterogeneous catalytic system coupled with US and aeration demonstrates an enhancement in terms of Orange II degradation compared with the absence of US. The experimental parameters, such as initial pH of solution, dosages of catalyst and peroxymonosulfate (PMS), and power of ultrasound as well as different operating conditions, were systematically studied and optimized. Under the optimal parameters, it's worthy to note that Orange II could be completely degraded in a few minutes by heterogeneous catalytic system due to the apply with US and aeration. Apparently, the ultrasonic technique and aeration applied are promising for the treatment of wastewater containing Orange II.