A Simple Device for the On-Site Photodegradation of Pesticide Mixes Remnants to Avoid Environmental Point Pollution

Applied Sciences

ElidaNora Ferri¹  Stefano Sangiorgi¹  StefanoDi Marco²  ElisaGiorgia Metruccio²  Fabio Osti²  Biagio Esposito³  Francesco Riminucci³ 

[1] Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Via S. Donato, 15-40127 Bologna, Italy;National Research Council, Institute of BioEconomy (CNR-IBE), Via P. Gobetti, 101-40129 Bologna, Italy;Proambiente s.c.r.l.—Tecnopolo Bologna CNR, Via P. Gobetti, 101-40129 Bologna, Italy;

关键词: agrochemicals;    photo-reactor;    advanced oxidation processes;    water pollution;    point sources;   

DOI  :  10.3390/app11083593

来源: DOAJ

【 摘 要 】

The worldwide increase in the number and use of agrochemicals impacts nearby soil and freshwater ecosystems. Beyond the excess in applications and dosages, the inadequate management of remnants and the rinsing water of containers and application equipment worsen this problem, creating point sources of pollution. Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) such as photocatalytic and photo-oxidation processes have been successfully applied in degrading organic pollutants. We developed a simple prototype to be used at farms for quickly degrading pesticides in water solutions by exploiting a UV–H₂O₂-mediated AOP. As representative compounds, we selected the insecticide imidacloprid, the herbicide terbuthylazine, and the fungicide azoxystrobin, all in their commercial formulation. The device efficiency was investigated through the disappearance of the parent molecule and the degree of mineralization. The toxicity of the pesticide solutions, before and during the treatment, was assessed by Vibrio fischeri and Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata inhibition assays. The results obtained have demonstrated a cost-effective, viable alternative for detoxifying the pesticide solutions before their disposal into the environment, even though the compounds, or their photoproducts, showed different sensitivities to physicochemical degradation. The bioassays revealed changes in the inhibitory effects on the organisms in agreement with the analytical data.

【 授权许可】

Unknown