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Efficient aqueous degradation of fluoranthene using non-thermal plasma treatment
,
Nofel Merbahi,
Jalloul Bouajila
Environmental Technology & Innovation, Volume: 40, Start page: 104390
Swansea University Author:
Chedly Tizaoui
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DOI (Published version): 10.1016/j.eti.2025.104390
Abstract
Fluoranthene (FLT), a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) classified as a Priority Hazardous Substance, is recognised for its persistence in the environment. This is due to its complex molecular structure and low aqueous solubility, making it particularly challenging to degrade. This study investi...
| Published in: | Environmental Technology & Innovation |
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| ISSN: | 2352-1864 |
| Published: |
Elsevier BV
2025
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| Online Access: |
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| URI: | https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa70061 |
| Abstract: |
Fluoranthene (FLT), a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) classified as a Priority Hazardous Substance, is recognised for its persistence in the environment. This is due to its complex molecular structure and low aqueous solubility, making it particularly challenging to degrade. This study investigated a pin-to-water non-thermal plasma (NTP) reactor for the efficient degradation of FLT in aqueous environments. The Results showed that NTP eliminated FLT rapidly with 100 % degradation in less than 5 min. A linear correlation was observed between the pseudo-first-order reaction rate constant and the applied voltage, with energy efficiency reaching up to 110 mg/kWh. The stable species and physicochemical parameters measured in the liquid phase show varying changes over time, both in the presence and absence of FLT. For instance, the pH of the solution decreased from around 6.6 to 4.5 while the oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) increased steadily as the discharge time increased. H₂O₂ concentrations revealed its consumption during the first 10 min of plasma exposure, indicating H2O2 contribution to FLT degradation. Additionally, LC-ESI-MS/MS analysis identified nine by-products, primarily resulting from nitration and hydroxylation reactions. Both LC-ESI-MS/MS analysis and Fukui function indices determined through Density Functional Theory calculation provided insights into the reaction mechanism. Overall, this study highlights the effectiveness and potential of NTP for the treatment of PAH-contaminated waters. |
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| Keywords: |
Non-thermal plasma; Advanced oxidation processes; Fluoranthene; Hydroxyl radicals; Fukui function |
| College: |
Faculty of Science and Engineering |
| Funders: |
CT and NM acknowledge the support received from the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, France, under the Invited Professors program. |
| Start Page: |
104390 |