Combined Application of Membrane and Advanced Oxidation Processes for Removal of Pharmaceuticals from Water

The presence of pharmaceuticals in the aquatic environment is problematic in many aspects, mainly due to their specific mode of action, and physical and chemical properties that make them highly resistant to degradation. This new group of contaminants is frequently detected in conventional wastewater treatment plants. Removal of pharmaceuticals from water by primary and secondary methods (filtration, sedimentation, biological treatment) is not satisfactory, therefore advanced methods involving membrane and advanced oxidation processes are increasingly being de -veloped. The most significant advantage of membrane technologies is their wide industrial applicability while maintaining the highest water standards. Advanced oxidation processes can effectively decompose complex pollutants into simpler ones, and mineralize organic pollutants in wastewater without generating secondary waste. In order to improve their advantages, but also to eliminate disadvantages, these technologies are increasingly complemented and combined, resulting in higher efficiency in removing pharmaceuticals from water and reducing their toxicity.