Evaluation of the Efficiency of photocatalytic UV/ peroxymonosulfate process in the removal of cefexime antibiotic from aqueous solutions

Pharmaceuticals, especially antibiotics, are new contaminants that because of their cumulative nature, adverse effects and drug resistance; have created a major environmental concern. The aim of this study was to evaluate UV/peroxymonosulfate (UV/PMS) process efficiency in the removal of cefexime antibiotic from aqueous solution.

This experimental laboratory study was conducted in batch mode. We assessed the effects of main operational parameters such as solution pH (3-9), reaction time (0-30 min), photocatalyst dosage (0.75-2.25 mmol/L), and initial concentration of cefexime (5-25 mg/L) on removal efficiency. Spectrophotometer (HACH DR-5000 UV–Vis) was used to measure the initial and final concentrations of cefexime.

Under optimal condition (pH=7.5, irradiation time=30 min, C0=5 mg/L, and PMS dosage=1.37 mmol/L), use of photocatalytic UV/peroxymonosulfate led to efficient removal of cefexime (93.18%).

The results of this study showed the acceptable performance of peroxymonosulfate process in the removal of cefexime.