Optimization of Clodinafop-Propargyl Herbicide Removal Using a Batch Photoreactor UV/TiO₂/H₂O₂ from Aqueous Solution

Due to the rising demand for this herbicide, the global consumption of Clodinafop-Propargyl is anticipated to increase significantly between 2022 and 2030. Predicted increases in the production and consumption of Clodinafop-Propargyl are concerns, given its persistence in the Environment, potential for genetic mutations, acute toxicity, and carcinogenicity, positioning it as a relatively hazardous chemical for humans, aquatic life, mammals, and other species. This study as a catalyst system was conducted in a double-walled UV/TiO₂/H₂O₂ photoreactor with a volume of 2000 mg/L, focusing on the effect of Clodinafop-Propargyl concentration variables (ranging from 1-15 mg/L), H₂O₂ concentration range (50-150 mg/L), reaction time (15-45 minutes), and catalyst dose (0.1-0.5 g/L) for the removal of Clodinafop-Propargyl. Furthermore, a light source improved the Photocatalytic activity by broadening the UV spectral range. The impact of each experimental variable, including initial herbicide concentration, catalyst, and hydraulic retention time, was also examined. The priority of the research was to remove herbicide from the effluent as an environmental objective.  Degradation of clodinafop with UV radiation alone resulted in negligible herbicide degradation. The maximum removal of Clodinafop-Propargyl by UV/TiO₂ was 34.68%. In the Photocatalytic process, UV/TiO₂/H₂O₂, with an optimal amount of 4 mg/L Clodinafop-Propargyl, 0.15 g/L TiO₂, and 89 mg/L H₂O₂, the degradation efficiency improved to over 98% in 43 minutes.  The findings of this research demonstrate the suitable efficiency and high productivity of the advanced oxidation photocatalytic process UV/TiO₂/H₂O₂ in reducing Clodinafop-Propargyl herbicide from agricultural wastewater. This process represents an effective and cost-efficient method for removing agricultural toxins from water sources.