7.

PEROXONE (OZONE/HYDROGEN
PEROXIDE)
Advanced oxidation processes generate highly reactive hydroxyl free radicals to oxidize various
compounds in the water. As discussed in Chapter 3, hydroxyl radicals are produced during the
spontaneous decomposition of ozone. By accelerating the ozone decomposition rate, the hydroxyl
radical concentration is elevated, which increases the oxidation rate. This procedure increases the
contribution of indirect oxidation over direct ozone oxidation as discussed in Chapter 3.

Several methods have been used to increase ozone decomposition and produce high concentrations of
hydroxyl radicals. One of the most common of these processes involves adding hydrogen peroxide
to ozonated water, a process commonly referred to as peroxone.

The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWDSC) conducted extensive research into
the use of peroxone to control organics and oxidize taste and odor compounds (e.g., geosmin and 2-
methylisoborneol [MIB]) while providing sufficient levels of molecular ozone to guarantee CT
values and primary disinfection. While this chapter focuses on peroxone as a disinfectant, similar
results are expected from other advanced oxidation processes such as ozone plus UV, ozone at high
pH, hydrogen peroxide plus UV, and other combinations.

A key issue with the use of peroxone as a disinfection process is that the process does not provide a
measurable disinfectant residual. It is therefore not possible to calculate CT similar to the use of
other disinfectants. While no credit can be given for hydroxyl free radicals because it cannot be
measured directly, some credit may be considered for any detected ozone in peroxone systems.
Peroxone does provide pathogen inactivation, as discussed in this chapter, but equivalent CT values
or methods of calculating equipment CT credits have not been established at the date of publication
of this guidance document.

7.1 Peroxone Chemistry

The ozone decomposition cycle is similar to that discussed in Chapter 3. However, the added
hydrogen peroxide or ultraviolet radiation accelerates the decomposition of ozone and increases the
hydroxyl radical concentration. By adding hydrogen peroxide, the net production of hydroxyl free
radicals is 1.0 mole hydroxyl radical per mole ozone.

Similar to the discussion of ozone in Chapter 3, oxidation in the peroxone occurs due to two
reactions (Hoigné and Bader, 1978):

• Direct oxidation of compounds by aqueous ozone (O3(aq)); and

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• Oxidation of compounds by hydroxyl radicals produced by the decomposition of ozone.

The two oxidation reactions compete for substrate (i.e., compounds to oxidize). The ratio of direct
oxidation with molecular ozone is relatively slow (10-5-107M-1sec-1) compared to hydroxyl radical
oxidation (1012-1014M-1sec-1), but the concentration of ozone is relatively high. On the other hand, the
hydroxyl radical reactions are very fast, but the concentration of hydroxyl radicals under normal
ozonation conditions is relatively small.

A key difference between the ozone and peroxone processes is that the ozone process relies heavily
on the direct oxidation of aqueous ozone while peroxone relies primarily on oxidation with hydroxyl
radical. In the peroxone process, the ozone residual is short lived because the added peroxide greatly
accelerates the ozone decomposition. However, the increased oxidation achieved by the hydroxyl
radical greatly outweighs the reduction in direct ozone oxidation because the hydroxyl radical is
much more reactive. The net result is that oxidation is more reactive and much faster in the peroxone
process compared to the ozone molecular process. However, because an ozone residual is required
for determining disinfection CT credit, peroxone may not be appropriate as a pre-disinfectant.

The peroxone process utilizes oxidation by hydroxyl radicals. The oxidation potential of the
hydroxyl radical and ozone are as follows:

OH + e − → OH − E0 = +2.8V

O3 + 2 H + + 2 e − → O2 + H 2 O E0 = +2.07V

O3 + H 2 O + 2e − → O2 + 2OH − E0 = +1.24V

In addition to having an oxidation potential of hydroxyl radical higher than ozone, the hydroxyl
radical is also much more reactive approaching the diffusion control rates for solutes such as
aromatic hydrocarbons, unsaturated compounds, aliphatic alcohols, and formic acid (Hoigné and
Bader, 1976).

7.1.1 Oxidation Reactions

Because the radical oxidation is much more effective than direct oxidation with ozone, it has been
used extensively to treat difficult to oxidize organics such as taste and odor compounds and
chlorinated organics (e.g., geosmin, MIB, phenolic compounds, trichloroethylene [TCE], and
perchloroethylene [PCE]).

Neither ozone nor peroxone significantly destroys TOC. Peroxone will oxidize the saturated
organics and produce byproducts similar to those found in ozonation; namely, aldehydes, ketones,
peroxides, bromate ion, and biodegradable organics (MWDSC and JMM, 1992). However, with
peroxone, the biodegradibility of the water (not the organic compounds) increases, rendering “a
portion of the TOC” amenable to removal in biologically active filters.

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Peroxone has found a niche in oxidizing difficult-to-treat organics, such as taste and odor compounds
including geosmin and MIB (Pereira et al., 1996; Ferguson et al., 1990). In addition, peroxone and
other advanced oxidation processes have been shown to be effective in oxidizing halogenated
compounds such as 1,1-dichloropropene, trichloroethylene, 1-chloropentane, and 1,2-dichloroethane
(Masten and Hoigné, 1992; Aieta et al., 1988; Glaze and Kang, 1988). Hydroxyl radicals will react
with all these compounds plus refractory aliphatics such as alcohols and short-chain acids (Chutny
and Kucera, 1974).

The optimum peroxide:ozone dose ratio to maximize hydroxyl radicals’ reaction rate can be
determined for a specific oxidation application. For instance, the optimum peroxide:ozone dose ratio
for TCE and PCE oxidation in a ground water was determined to be 0.5 by weight (Glaze and Kang,
1988). Tests showed that TCE required lower ozone dosages for the same percentage removal
compared to PCE.

LADWP conducted pilot studies and operated a 2,000 gpm full scale AOP demonstration plant in
1995. The peroxide:ozone dose ratio used was 0.5 to 0.6. Ground water containing up to 447 mg/L
TCE and 163 mg/L PCE was treated to below the respective MCLs. However, bromate ion was
formed in excess of the 0.010 mg/L MCL (Karimi et al., 1997).

7.1.2 Reactions with Other Water Quality Parameters

As with ozone alone, pH and bicarbonate alkalinity play a major role in peroxone effectiveness
(Glaze and Kang, 1988). This role is primarily related to bicarbonate and carbonate competition for
hydroxyl radical at high alkalinity and carbonate competition for hydroxyl radical at high pH levels.
Also, excessive peroxide can also limit the formation of the hydroxyl radical and reduce the
effectiveness of peroxone.

Turbidity alone does not appear to play a role in peroxone effectiveness nor does peroxone appear to
remove turbidity. Tobiason et al. (1992) studied the impact of pre-oxidation on filtration and
concluded that the pre-oxidation did not improve effluent turbidities, but did appear to increase filter
run times because of lower head loss or delayed turbidity breakthrough. Filter effluent turbidities
were similar for no-oxidant and pre-oxidant trains.

7.1.3 Comparison between Ozone and Peroxone

The key difference between ozone and peroxone is in the primary oxidation mode; that is, direct
oxidation or hydroxyl radical oxidation. The reactivities of these compounds create a different effect
in the reactions with water constituents and, thus, disinfection effectiveness. Table 7-1 summarizes
the key differences between ozone and peroxone as they relate to their application in drinking water
treatment.

Table 7-1. Comparison between Ozone and Peroxone Oxidation

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Process Ozone Peroxone

Ozone decomposition “Normal” decomposition producing Accelerated ozone decomposition
rate hydroxyl radical as an intermediate increases the hydroxyl radical
product concentration above that of ozone
alone.
Ozone residual 5-10 minutes Very short lived due to rapid reaction.
Oxidation path Usually direct aqueous molecular Primarily hydroxyl radical oxidation.
ozone oxidation
Ability to oxidize iron Excellent Less effective.
and manganese
Ability to oxidize taste Variable Good, hydroxyl radical more reactive
and odor compounds than ozone.
Ability to oxidize Poor Good, hydroxyl radical more reactive
chlorinated organics than ozone.
Disinfection ability Excellent Good, but systems can only receive
CT credit if they have a measurable
ozone residual.
Ability to detect Good Poor. Cannot calculate CT value for
residual for disinfection credit.
disinfection monitoring

7.2 Generation
The peroxone process requires an ozone generation system as described in Chapter 3 and a hydrogen
peroxide feed system. The process involves two essential steps: ozone dissolution and hydrogen
peroxide addition. Hydrogen peroxide can be added after ozone (thus allowing ozone oxidation and
disinfection to occur first) or before ozone (i.e., using peroxide as a pre-oxidant, followed by
hydroxyl radical reactions) or simultaneously. Addition of hydrogen peroxide following ozone is the
best way to operate, however a system cannot obtain a CT credit unless the ozone residual is
sufficiently high.

There are two major effects from the coupling of ozone with hydrogen peroxide (Duguet et al.,
1985):

• Oxidation efficiency is increased by conversion of ozone molecules to hydroxyl radicals; and

• Ozone transfer from the gas phase to the liquid is improved due to an increase in ozone
reaction rates.

The most efficient operation is to add ozone first to obtain CT disinfection credit, followed by
peroxide for hydroxyl radical oxidation.

Ozonation can be described as occurring in two stages. In the first stage, ozone rapidly destroys the
initial oxidant demand present, thereby enhancing the ozone transfer rate into solution from the gas

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phase. Addition of hydroxyl free radicals to the first stage should be minimized since the hydrogen
peroxide competes with ozone-reactive molecules (i.e., initial demand) for the ozone present. In the
second stage, organic matter is oxidized, taking place much slower than in the first stage. Adding
hydrogen peroxide during the second stage makes it possible to raise the overall oxidation efficiency,
since the reaction of hydrogen peroxide with ozone produces hydroxyl radicals enhancing chemical
reaction rates. In practice, the addition of hydrogen peroxide to the second stage of ozonation can be
achieved by injecting the hydrogen peroxide into the second chamber of an ozone contactor (Duguet
et al., 1985). The most efficient operation is to use ozone first to obtain CT credit and peroxone
second for micropollutant destruction.

Energy consumption of the peroxone process includes that for ozone generation and application, plus
for metering pumps to feed peroxide. The peroxide addition step does not require any more training
from an operator than any other liquid chemical feed system. Systems should be checked daily for
proper operation and for leaks. Storage volumes should also be checked daily to ensure sufficient
peroxide is on hand, and to monitor usage.

7.3 Primary Uses and Points of Application

Peroxone is used for oxidation of taste and odor compounds, and oxidation of synthetic organic
compounds. Peroxone is also used for the destruction of herbicides (e.g., atrazine), pesticides, and
VOCs. Peroxone is applied at points similar to ozone for oxidation. Addition of ozone first and
hydrogen peroxide second is the better way to operate. Alternatively, hydrogen peroxide can be
added upstream of ozone.

7.3.1 Primary Uses

7.3.1.1 Taste and Odor Compound Oxidation

Peroxone is used to remove taste and odor causing compounds because many of these compounds are
very resistant to oxidation, even ozone-oxidation. More recently, significant attention has been given
to tastes and odors from specific compounds such as geosmin, 2-methyliosborneol (MIB), and
chlorinated compounds. Studies at MWDSC demonstrated the effectiveness of peroxone to remove
geosmin and MIB during water treatment (Ferguson et al., 1990; Ferguson et al., 1991; Huck et al.,
1995).

7.3.1.2 Synthetic Organic Compound Oxidation

Peroxone and other advanced oxidation processes have been shown to be effective in oxidizing
halogenated compounds such as 1,1-dichloropropene (DCPE), TCE, 1-chloropentane (CPA), and 1,2-
dichloroethane (DCA) (Masten and Hoigné, 1992; Aieta et al., 1988; Glaze and Kang, 1988). The
hydroxyl radicals formed react with all these compounds plus refractory aliphatics, such as alcohols
and short-chain acids (Chutny and Kucera, 1974).

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7.3.2 Points of Application

The peroxone process is applied at points similar to ozone for oxidation as discussed in Chapter 3.
Importantly, peroxone addition should be after settling and prior to biological filtration. It is
important to add hydrogen peroxide after the initial ozone demand is consumed to avoid hydroxyl
free radical competition with the initial ozone demanding constituents.

7.3.2.1 Impact on Other Treatment Processes

Peroxide addition impacts other processes at the water treatment facility. These impacts include:

• The use of hydroxyl free radicals generates BDOC, which can cause biological growth in
distribution systems if not reduced during biologically active filtration. When peroxide
addition is placed before filters, it impacts the filters by increasing biological growths and
increasing backwash frequency (depending on the level on BDOC produced).
• Hydroxyl free radicals are strong oxidants that interfere with addition of other oxidants, such
as chlorine, until the ozone residual is quenched.
• The oxidation of iron and manganese by hydroxyl free radicals generates insoluble oxides
that should be removed by sedimentation or filtration. This also may impact the filters by
increasing the load on the filters and increasing backwash frequency.

The reader is referred to the Microbial and Disinfection Byproduct Simultaneous Compliance
Guidance Document (currently in production) for additional information regarding the interaction
between oxidants and other treatment processes.

7.4 Pathogen Inactivation

Both peroxone and other advanced oxidation processes have been proven to be equal or more
effective than ozone for pathogen inactivation. Disinfection credits are typically described in terms
of CT requirements. Because peroxone leaves no measurable, sustainable residual, calculation of an
equivalent CT for disinfection credit is not possible unless there is measurable ozone residual.

7.4.1 Inactivation Mechanism

Experiments have indicated that long contact times and high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide are
required for bacteria and virus inactivation (Lund, 1963; Yoshe-Purer and Eylan, 1968; Mentel and
Schmidt, 1973). Achieving a 99 percent inactivation of poliovirus required either a hydrogen
peroxide dose of 3,000 mg/L for 360 minutes or 15,000 mg/L for 24 minutes. Based on these results,
when the combination of ozone and hydrogen peroxide is used, the primary cause for pathogen
inactivation is attributed to ozone, specifically the mechanisms associated with the oxidation of
pathogens by direct ozone reaction and hydroxyl radicals.

As described in Chapter 3, the mode of action of ozone on microorganisms is poorly understood.

Some studies on bacteria suggest that ozone alters proteins and unsaturated bonds of fatty acids in the

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cell membrane, leading to cell lysis (Scott and Lesher, 1963; Pryor et al., 1983), while other studies
suggest that ozone may affect deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) in the cell (Hamelin and Chung, 1974;
Ohlrogge and Kernan, 1983; Ishizaki et al., 1987). Virus inactivation was reported to be related to
the attack of the protein capsid by ozone (Riesser et al., 1977). Little information was found
discussing the mode of action of ozone on protozoan oocysts. However, a few researchers have
suggested that ozone causes the oocyst density to decrease and alters the oocyst structure
(Wickramanayake, 1984; Wallis et al., 1990).

The debate continues regarding the primary mode of action for hydroxyl free radicals. Some
researchers believe that ozone disinfection is a result of direct ozone reaction (Hoigné and Bader,
1975; Hoigné and Bader, 1978), while others believe that the hydroxyl radical mechanism for
disinfection is the most important mechanism (Dahi, 1976; Bancroft et al., 1984). Studies using
ozone-hydrogen peroxide have shown that disinfection of E. coli is less effective as the peroxide to
ozone ratio increases to above approximately 0.2 mg/mg (Wolfe et al., 1989a; Wolfe et al., 1989b).
The decrease in disinfection was believed to be cause by lower ozone residuals associated with
higher peroxide to ozone ratios, which indicates that direct ozone reaction is an important mechanism
for pathogen inactivation.

7.4.2 Environmental Effects

Although the chemistry of the peroxone process is still not completely understood, optimal
production of the hydroxyl radical appears to depend on the pH, ozone concentration, ratio of
hydrogen peroxide to ozone, contact time, and water composition (Glaze et al., 1987).

7.4.2.1 Competing Chemical Reactions

One disadvantage of the peroxone process is that it involves radical intermediates that are subject to
interference from substances that react with hydroxyl radical, decreasing the effectiveness of the
process. Alkalinity, bicarbonate, and pH play a major role in the effectiveness of hydroxyl free
radicals. This effect is primarily related to bicarbonate competition for hydroxyl radical at high
alkalinity and carbonate competition for hydroxyl radical at pH levels higher than 10.3 (see Chapter
3). Lowering the alkalinity prior to the application of the peroxone process may be necessary for
water that has a high bicarbonate level. In addition to carbonate and bicarbonate, organic
constituents of humic substances have also been found to react with the hydroxide radical (Glaze,
1986).

7.4.2.2 Ratio of Hydrogen Peroxide and Ozone

A study conducted at MWDSC indicated that the performance of peroxone is greatly dependent upon
the peroxide:ozone ratio (Wolfe et al., 1989b). Results from previous studies at MWDSC suggested
that the optimal ratio for disinfection was less than or equal to 0.3. One of the primary objectives of
the 1989 study was to optimize further the process for disinfection by altering peroxide:ozone ratios
and contact times. Results from the study indicated that peroxone at a 0.2 ratio of peroxide:ozone

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was comparable to ozone for disinfection of indicator organisms and Giardia muris cysts, and that at
higher ratios, disinfection decreased because ozone decreased.

7.4.3 Disinfection Efficacy and Pathogen Inactivation

Recent studies have indicated that the disinfection effectiveness of peroxone and ozone are
comparable (Wolfe et al., 1989b; Ferguson et al., 1990; Scott et al., 1992). A study conducted by
Ferguson et al. (1990) compared the pathogen inactivation capability of peroxone and ozone using
MS-2 and f2 coliphages as well as E. coli. and heterotrophic plate count (HPC) bacteria. The f2 and
MS-2 coliphages were comparable in their resistance to ozone and peroxone. No differences in the
amounts of MS-2 or f2 inactivation were apparent when the peroxide:ozone ratio was varied from 0
to 0.3. Results of the E. coli. and HPC studies showed that peroxone and ozone also had comparable
results in regards to bacteria inactivation.

Table 7-2 lists CT values derived for inactivation of Giardia muris cysts by ozone and peroxone from
another study conducted by MWDSC. The contact times used for calculating the CT values were
based on 10% and 50% breakthrough of tracer compounds in the contactor. Ozone concentrations
used for CT were based on the ozone residual and half of the residual and dose. The results of this
study suggest that peroxone is slightly more potent than ozone based on the fact that CT values for
ozone were greater than for peroxone. However, because ozone decomposes more rapidly in the
presence of hydrogen peroxide, higher ozone dosages may be necessary with peroxone to achieve
comparable residuals. Moreover, the use of ozone residuals to calculate CT products for peroxone
may not take into account other oxidizing species that may have disinfectant capabilities.

Table 7-2. Calculated CT Values (mg•min/L) for the Inactivation of Giardia muris
Inactivation Ozone Ozone Peroxoneb Peroxone
C1T1a C2T2a C1T1a C2T2a
90% 1.6 2.8 1.2 2.6
99% 3.4 5.4 2.6 5.2
Data obtained from Wolfe et al., 1989b. Results at 14oC.
a
C1, ozone residual; C2 (ozone dose + ozone residual)/2; T1 and T2 time (in minutes) to reach 10 percent and 50 percent
breakthrough, respectively
b
The H2O2/O3 ratio for all results was 0.2.

7.5 Disinfection Byproducts

The principal byproducts associated with peroxone are expected to be similar to those for ozonation
and are listed in Table 3-9. Additional DBPs could form from reactions with hydroxyl radicals.
Peroxone does not form halogenated DBPs when participating in oxidation/reduction reactions with
NOM. However, if bromide ion is present in raw water halogenated DBPs may be formed. Similar
to ozone, the principal benefit of using peroxone for controlling THM formation appears to be that it
eliminates the need for pre-chlorination and allows lower doses of free chlorine or chloramines to be
applied later in the process train after precursors have been removed by coagulation, sedimentation,
and/or filtration and at lower doses. But peroxone does not reduce the DBPFP.

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Based upon studies and findings involving peroxone, there is no beneficial lowering of THMs as
long as free chlorine is utilized as a secondary disinfectant, unless the application of peroxone allows
chlorine to be applied later in the process train to water containing reduced precursor concentrations.
The MWDSC study found that the use of peroxone/chlorine resulted in THM concentrations 10 to 38
percent greater than the use of ozone/chorine. However, the THM concentrations of waters
disinfected with peroxone/chloramines and ozone/chloramines were similar (Ferguson et al., 1990).

The use of peroxone as a primary disinfectant and chloramines as a secondary disinfectant can
successfully control halogenated DBP formation if bromide ion is not present and adequate CT credit
can be established. As with ozone, bromate ion formation is a potential concern with source waters
containing bromide ions. The oxidation reaction of bromide ion (Br-) to hypobromite ion (BrO-) and
bromite ion (BrO2-) and subsequently to bromate ion (BrO3-) occurs due to direct reaction with ozone,
intermediate reactions can also occur through hydroxide radical mediated mechanisms if bromide is
not present and adequate CT credit can be established (Pereira et al., 1996).

In general, peroxone produces more bromate ion than ozone when similar ozone residuals (CT
credits) are achieved (Krasner et al., 1993). On the other hand, when the ozone dosage is kept
constant, peroxone has tended to produce comparable amounts of bromate ion as ozone. Although
peroxone produces hydroxyl radicals that can increase bromate ion formation, hydrogen peroxide
may also reduce the hypobromite ion (produced initially during the ozonation of bromide) back to
bromide ion.

A study by MWDSC evaluated the effectiveness of peroxone to control taste and odor, DBPs, and
microorganisms (Ferguson et al., 1990). In attempting to optimize the hydrogen peroxide to ozone
ratio (H2O2:O3) and the contact time for the source water, the study found pre-oxidation of source
waters followed by secondary disinfection with chloramines was an effective strategy for controlling
concentrations of THMs and other DBPs. The study found that the two source waters disinfected
with peroxone, with free chlorine as the secondary disinfectant, resulted in THM concentrations
ranging from 67 to 160 µg/L. Conversely, using chloramines as a secondary disinfectant resulted in
THM concentrations consistently below 3.5 µg/L (Ferguson et al., 1990).

However, if a short free chlorine contact time is applied after biological filtration and before
ammonia addition to inactivate heterotrophic plate count bacteria in the effluent of the biologically
active filter—THMs and other DBPs will be formed at higher concentrations than from post
chloramination alone. Depending on the TOC and bromide ion concentration of the water, as well as
the pH of chlorination, temperature, and reaction time, between 2 and 28 µg/L of TTHMs have been
formed in experiments conducted at MWDSC (personal communication, 1998).

Bromate formation in conventional ozonation, and advanced oxidation processes combining ozone
and hydrogen peroxide, were recently investigated at five water treatment plants in France. The
source water bromide ion concentrations ranged from 35 to 130 µg/L. Bromate ion formation during
the ozonation step varied from less than 2 to 42 µg/L. In general, advanced oxidation results in
greater bromate ion concentrations when compared with conventional ozonation, provided the same

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ozone residual is maintained for both processes. However, lower concentrations of bromate ion
result if the ozone dosage is kept constant between the two processes and the hydrogen peroxide
dosage is increased (von Gunten et al., 1996). To reduce bromate ion formation potential, the
proposed ozone contactor at Stone Canyon Filtration Plant includes three ozone application points
instead of two (Stolarik and Christie, 1997). Thus, when peroxone is used for obtaining CT credit,
more bromate ion may form than during ozonation. However, if peroxone is only used for
micropollutant destruction, less bromate ion may form than when ozone is used.

7.6 Status of Analytical Methods

Hydrogen peroxide in solution reacts with ozone to ultimately form water and oxygen. Consequently,
the simultaneous presence of both oxidants is accepted as being only transient (Masschelein et al.,
1977). Chapter 3 summarizes ozone analytical methods that can be used for ozone/hydrogen
peroxide disinfectant residual monitoring. This section will present the status of analytical methods
for hydrogen peroxide only.

7.6.1 Monitoring of Hydrogen Peroxide

Standard Methods (1995) does not list procedures for measuring hydrogen peroxide. Gordon et al.
(1992) list several methods for hydrogen peroxide analysis including:

• Titration methods;

• Colorimetric methods; and

• Horseradish peroxidase methods.

Table 7-3 shows the working range, expected accuracy and precision, operator skill level required,
interferences and current status for hydrogen peroxide analysis.

7.6.1.1 Titration Methods

Two titration methods are available for the analysis of hydrogen peroxide; namely, iodometric and
permanganate. Precautions for the iodometric titration include the volatility of iodine, interferences
by metals such as iron, copper, nickel, and chromium, and fading titration end points (Gordon et al.,
1992). Organic and inorganic substances that react with permanganate will interfere with the
permanganate titration.

Titration of hydrogen peroxide with permanganate or iodide ion is not sufficiently sensitive for
determining residual concentrations (Masschelein et al., 1977).

7.6.1.2 Colorimetric Methods

The most widespread method for the colorimetric determination of hydrogen peroxide is that based
on the oxidation of a Titanium (IV) salt (Masschelein et al., 1977). A yellow complex is formed and

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measured by absorption at 410 nm. On a qualitative basis, ozone and persulfates do not produce the
same colored complex.

The oxidation of the leuco base of phenolphthalein is used as a qualitative test for hydrogen peroxide
(Dukes and Hydier, 1964). Sensitivity and precision of the method is sufficient in the range between
5 and 100 µg/L. This low working analytical range makes this method impractical for measuring
hydrogen peroxide residual levels. Also, the instability of the color obtained makes the method less
suitable for manual use. No interference data are available, but it is expected that other oxidants
would interfere (Gordon et al., 1992).

The oxidation of cobalt (II) and bicarbonate in the presence of hydrogen peroxide produces a
carbonato-cobaltate (III) complex (Masschelein et al., 1977). This complex has absorption bands at
260, 440, and 635 nm. The 260 nm band has been used for the measurement of hydrogen peroxide.
A detection limit of 0.01 mg/L has been reported (Masschelein et al., 1977). Optical interferences are
caused by 100 mg/L nitrate and 1 mg/L chlorite ions. Other oxidizing agents do interfere with this
method as will any compound with an absorption at 260 nm (Gordon et al., 1992).

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Table 7-3. Characteristics and Comparisons of Hydrogen Peroxide Analytical Methods

Working Expected Expected
Range Accuracy Precision Skill Field Automated
Type of Test (mg/L) (± percent) (± percent) Levela Interferences pH Range Test Test Current Status
Iodometric Titration > 10 5 5 2 Oxidizing Species Acidic Yes No Currently Used
Permanganate 0.1 - 100 5 5 2 Oxidizing Species Acidic Yes No Currently Used
Titration
Colorimetry, Titanium 0.1 - 5 NR NR 2 Ozone Acidic Yes No Not
IV Recommended
Colorimetry, Leuco 0.005 - 0.1 NR NR 2 Ozone Neutral Yes Yes Not
Base of Recommended
Phenolphthalein
Colorimetry, Cobalt 0.01 - 1 NR NR 2 Ozone Neutral Yes Yes Not
III/HCO3- Recommended
HRPb 10-8 - 10-5 NR NR 2 Other Peroxides, 4.5 - 5.5 No Yes Currently Used
Ozone
Notes:
a
Operator Skill Levels: 1 = minimal, 2 = good technician, 3 = experienced chemist
NR = Not reported in literature cited by referenced source.
Adapted from Gordon et al., 1992
b
This method can not be used in real peroxone-treated waters where the hydrogen peroxide concentration is significantly higher.

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7.6.1.3 Horseradish Peroxidase Methods

Several methods incorporate the chemical reactions between peroxidase and hydrogen
peroxide. Horseradish derived peroxidase (HRP) is used most often. The scopoletin
procedure is one of the more widely accepted fluorescent methods of low levels of hydrogen
peroxide utilizing HRP (Gordon et al., 1992). Again, no information is available on potential
interference.

7.6.1.4 Summary
In general, the analytical procedures for hydrogen peroxide in drinking water are impacted by
other oxidizing species such as ozone. Three of the methods are currently used, but not
recommended for disinfectant residual measurement (Table 7-3). The scopoletin HRP
method is the most promising, although additional study of potential interferences is required
(Gordon et al., 1992).

7.7 Operational Considerations

Peroxide is a strong oxidant and contact with personnel should be avoided. Secondary
containment should be provided for storage tanks to contain any spills. Dual containment
piping should be considered to minimize the risk of exposure to plant personnel. Storage
containers may explode in the presence of extreme heat or fire.

7.7.1 Process Considerations

The impacts of the peroxone process are similar to those described for ozone in Chapter 3.
Because an additional oxidant is added to the water, the tendency to transform organic carbon
compounds to a more biodegradable form may be increased with the addition of peroxide.

7.7.2 Space Requirements

The metering pumps used to add peroxide should be housed with adequate space around each
pump for maintenance access. These pumps are generally not very large, so space
requirements are not significant.

The storage area can range from small where peroxide is obtained in drums, to large tank
farms if plant flow is great. As mentioned previously, secondary containment should be
provided. Peroxide has a lower freezing point than water. Housing or heat tracing should be
provided for storage tanks and exterior piping if extended periods with temperatures below
freezing are anticipated.

7.7.3 Materials
Peroxide can be stored in polyethylene drums or tanks. The specific gravity is 1.39 for 50
percent peroxide, which should be considered in the design of the tank walls. Acceptable

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pipe materials for peroxide include 316 stainless steel, polyethylene, CPVC, and Teflon.
Gaskets should be Teflon because natural rubber, Hypalon and EPDM are not resistant to
hydrogen peroxide. Metering pumps heads should be constructed of peroxide resistant
materials.

Hydrogen peroxide is purchased from chemical suppliers and is commercially available in

35, 50, and 75 percent strengths. Peroxide is supplied in drums or in bulk by tankcar. Price
depends on strength and quantity.

Peroxide can be stored onsite, but deteriorates gradually over time even when stored
correctly. Peroxide deteriorates rapidly if contaminated and with heat or exposure to certain
materials. Peroxide is added to the water with metering pumps to accurately control dose.
Pumps should be designed to prevent potential air binding of peroxide off-gas. Multiple
pumps should be provided for redundancy. As with any chemical added to water, adequate
mixing should be provided.

7.8 Summary
7.8.1 Advantages and Disadvantages of Peroxone Use
(Ozone/Hydrogen Peroxide)
The following list highlights selected advantages and disadvantages of using peroxone as a
disinfection method for drinking water. Because of the wide variation of system size, water
quality, and dosages applied, some of these advantages and disadvantages may not apply to a
particular system.

Advantages

• Oxidation is more reactive and much faster in the peroxone process compared to the
ozone molecular process.

• Peroxone is effective in oxidizing difficult-to-treat organics, such as taste and odor

compounds.

• Peroxone processes have been shown to be effective in oxidizing halogenated

compounds.

• The tendency to transform organic carbon compounds to a more biodegradable form may
be increased with the addition of peroxide.

• Pumps used to house peroxide are not very large; so space requirements are not
significant.

Disadvantages

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• Peroxide is a strong oxidant and contact with personnel is extremely dangerous.

• Peroxide can be stored onsite, but deteriorates gradually even when stored correctly.

• Peroxone as a disinfection process does not provide a measurable disinfectant residual. It

is therefore not possible to calculate CT similar to the use of other disinfectants.

• Peroxone’s ability to oxidize iron and manganese is less effective than that of ozone.

7.8.2 Summary Table

Table 7-4 summarizes the considerations relative to peroxone disinfection considerations.

Table 7-4. Summary of Peroxone Disinfection Consideration

Consideration Description
Generation Because of its instability, ozone must be generated at the point-of-use.
Hydrogen peroxide is purchased from chemical suppliers. Hydrogen
peroxide can be stored onsite, but is subject to deterioration.
Primary uses Primary use includes chemical oxidation. As an oxidizing agent,
peroxone can be used to remove SOC pollutants and increase the
biodegradability of organic compounds. Peroxone is an effective
disinfectant but its CT credit has not been established. It is highly
reactive and does not maintain an appreciable residual for CT credit
calculations. Peroxone may be difficult to use for disinfection because
it is highly reactive and does not maintain an appreciable ozone
residual level.
Inactivation efficiency Peroxone is one of the most potent and effective germicides used in
water treatment. It is slightly more effective than ozone against
bacteria, viruses, and protozoan cysts.
Byproduct formation Peroxone itself does not form halogenated DBPs; however, if bromide
is present in the raw water or if chlorine is added as a secondary
disinfectant, halogenated DBPs including bromate may be formed.
Other byproducts include organic acids and aldehydes.
Limitations Ideally, ozone should be used as a primary disinfectant prior to
peroxone treatment.
Point of application For disinfection, peroxone addition should be after ozonation. Ozone
contact should precede addition of hydrogen peroxide. For oxidation,
peroxone can be added prior to coagulation/sedimentation or filtration
depending on the constituents to be oxidized.
Special considerations Ozone generation is a relatively complex process. Storage of LOX for
ozone generation is subject to building and fire codes. Ozone is a
highly toxic gas and the ozone production and application facilities
must be monitored for ambient ozone. Hydrogen peroxide is a
hazardous material requiring secondary containment for storage
facilities.

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As early as 1923, ferric chloride leaching was applied to one sulfide ore and was
recognized as a highly efficient process [4]. Chloride leaching has become more practical
during
2 H. K. Lin Vol. 2, No1
the past three decades as corrosion problems posed by concentrated chloride solution
have been
at least partially overcome by the advent of modern materials of construction.
The U. S. Bureau of Mines has conducted extensive tests on ferric chloride leaching of
chalocopyrite concentrates [5,6]. Many chloride-based hydrometallurgical processes such
as:
Clear Cymet, Elken, Phelps Dodge and Cuprex processes have been developed to treat
copper,
copper-lead-zinc concentrates.
Chalcopyrite dissolves in ferric chloride solution and the reactions, depending on the
ferric concentration, may be simplified as:
CuFeS2 + 4Fe+3 = Cu+2 + 5Fe+2 + 2S (1)
or
CuFeS2 + 3Fe+3 = Cu+ + 4Fe+2 + 2S (2)
In the case of pyrite dissolution, the reaction can be expresses as:
4FeS2 + 4Fe+3 + O2 + 2H2O = 8Fe+2 + 4 OH- + 8S (3)
Elemental sulfur, which is the predominant solid product of the reactions, can account for
more than 50% by weight of the leaching residue. An economically successful recovery
of
sulfur will be a great asset to chloride-based hydrometallurgical processes.
Elemental sulfur produced by hydrometallurgical processes usually contains 50-2000
parts per million of selenium and a lesser amount of tellurium; hence, it is not suitable for
many
industrial or agricultural uses. If the hydrometallurgical sulfur is to be marketable,
selenium and
tellurium may have to be removed. Otherwise, the sulfur may be considered as an
industrial
waste rather than a by-product. Dissolution of the sulfur with solvents such as carbon
disulfide,
xylenes, and tetrachloro-ethylene followed by evaporation fails to remove selenium and
tellurium from the sulfur [7].
In recent studies, a process to remove selenium and tellurium from sulfur has been
developed [7,8]. In the process, the Se- and Te-containing sulfur was dissolved in an
organic
solvent such as xylene or tetrachloro-ethylene followed by mixing the solvent with an
aqueous
solution of a high redox potential. The mixing can be effectively conducted in a mixer-
settler
unit for a typical solvent extraction operation. Both selenium and tellurium were oxidized
in the
mixing and thus became very hydrophilic. After the separation of the organic phase from
the

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aqueous phase, sulfur remained in the organic phase and selenium and tellurium in the
aqueous
phase. A sulfur product with high purity was obtained by crystallization from the organic
phase.
However, the cost of the process of removing selenium and tellurium is relatively high.
To make the process more economically feasible, the feed to the process should have a
high
sulfur content.
The objective of this study is to upgrade the sulfur content of the leaching residue of
sulfide ores or concentrates through froth flotation technique. The upgraded flotation
concentrate
Vo1. 2, No.1 Characterization and Flotation of Sulfur from Chalcopyrite Concentrate Leaching 3
can serve as the feed for the above-mentioned or similar processes to produce selenium-
and
tellurium-free sulfur product.

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