Trials on ciprofloxacin removal from wastewater using a photocatalytic membrane reactor

Abstract

Trials on the removal of ciprofloxacin from natural aqueous systems were performed using a photocatalytic membrane reactor with a catalyst in suspension. Four sets of four treatment cycles were carried out and experimental results were processed from the statistical point of view in order to assess results reproducibility. Global ciprofloxacin removal efficiencies of more than 99.85% were obtained for all treatment cycles. Coupling of photocatalytic degradation with the membrane process allowed catalyst separation and reuse within further treatment cycles. Statistical analysis of experimental data recommends the use of photocatalytic membrane reactors as a feasible option for the advanced removal of pharmaceutical products like ciprofloxacin from real wastewater systems.