AQUEOUS OZONATION OF SURFACTANTS - A REVIEW

The aqueous ozonation reactions of surfactants have been reviewed, including the degree of reaction and ozonation byproduct identity. Compounds are classified into three groups: anionic, cationic and non-ionic surfactants. Experimental conditions for each study reviewed are summarized. Much work has been carried out under conditions unlikely to occur during drinking water treatment. Thus, most of the findings of the papers reviewed cannot be directly applied to potable water treatment. However this review can serve to indicate the likely reactivity of the individual surfactants towards ozone and the possible byproducts formed. This reactivity depends mainly upon the chemical structure of the surfactants. The removal of surfactants is pH dependent, with the best results being obtained in alkaline media. High ozone doses usually do not cause complete disruption of the surfactants, while smaller doses are sufficient to enhance their biodegradation.