Microwave-enhanced advanced oxidation processes for the degradation of dyes in water

Contamination of water bodies with dyes has become a serious global concern affecting the whole biosphere. Microwave irradiation and advanced oxidation processes (AOP) have recently gained importance as efficient remediation methods. Indeed, microwave offers special features such as fast, uniform, selective and controlled heating that result in a rapid reaction rate, whereas advanced oxidation processes are able to mineralize any organic pollutant. Here we review microwave-enhanced advanced oxidation processes for the removal or degradation of synthetic dyes, and we compare with conventional treatment methods. We found that microwave-enhanced AOP improve the efficiency of dye degradation. However, cost analyses reveal an economic limitation of microwave-enhanced processes.