Redox-dependent removal of 27 organic trace pollutants: compilation of results from tank aeration experiments

The biodegradation of various wastewater-derived organic trace pollutants occurring in different aquatic compartments of the environment was previously reported to be influenced by the prevailing redox conditions. However, comparative studies on the redox-dependent degradation behavior of organic trace pollutants are scarce. The objective of the study presented herein, was to compile and evaluate data from several comparable previous tank experiments, thus, providing an overview on the redox-dependent removal of a total of 27 wastewater-derived trace compounds, including phenazone type compounds, antimicrobials, ß-blockers, psychoactive drugs and sulfonamides. Removal rate constants were fitted assuming first-order degradation kinetics. Six compounds were identified to be removed solely under oxic, three compounds solely under anoxic conditions. Others persisted under all experimental conditions, while some were removed under both oxic and anoxic conditions.