Sonoelectrochemical degradation of phenol in aqueous solutions

The sonoelectrochemical degradation of phenol in aqueous solutions with stainless steel electrodes and high-frequency ultrasound (850 kHz) was investigated. A 60% synergetic effect was obtained in the combined reaction system. High concentration of electrolyte (sodium sulfate) and a high electrical voltage are favorable conditions for the degradation of phenol. A nearly complete degradation of phenol was achieved with 4.26 g/L Na2SO4 and 30 V electrical voltages at 25 degrees C in 1 h. The degradation of phenol follows pseudo-first order kinetics. Considering costs and application, the energy efficiency of the reaction system with different reaction conditions was evaluated. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.