Catalytic Wet Air Oxidation of Phenol Over Copper Oxide Catalyst Supported on Cerium Oxide Carrier

Abstract

Phenol-containing industrial wastewater poses serious environmental concerns due to its toxicity, persistence, and resistance to conventional biological treatment methods. This study investigates the catalytic wet air oxidation (CWAO) of phenol using a copper oxide catalyst supported on a cerium oxide carrier for efficient degradation of organic pollutants under aqueous phase oxidation conditions. The research focuses on evaluating catalytic activity, oxidation efficiency, and operational parameters influencing phenol removal and mineralization performance. Experimental analyses were conducted to examine the effects of reaction temperature, air pressure, catalyst loading, initial phenol concentration, reaction time, and pH on oxidation behavior and pollutant conversion. Results demonstrated that the copper oxide catalyst supported on cerium oxide exhibited high catalytic activity and enhanced oxygen transfer characteristics, leading to significant phenol degradation and reduction in chemical oxygen demand. The cerium oxide carrier improved catalyst stability and oxygen storage capacity, thereby promoting the generation of reactive oxygen species responsible for oxidation reactions. Optimized operating conditions substantially increased phenol conversion efficiency while minimizing the formation of toxic intermediate compounds. Kinetic evaluation revealed that the oxidation process follows heterogeneous catalytic reaction mechanisms strongly influenced by catalyst surface interactions and oxygen availability. Catalyst characterization studies confirmed good structural stability and sustained catalytic performance during repeated oxidation cycles. Compared with conventional treatment methods, catalytic wet air oxidation offers advantages such as lower sludge production, improved pollutant mineralization, and reduced environmental impact. The findings highlight the potential of copper oxide–cerium oxide catalytic systems as an effective and sustainable technology for treating phenolic industrial wastewater and supporting advanced environmental remediation applications.