Decontamination of heavy metal complexes by advanced oxidation processes: A review

Heavy metal complexes with high mobility are widely distributed in wastewater from modern industries, which are more stable and refractory than free heavy metal ions. Their removals from wastewater draw increasing attentions and various technologies have been developed, among which advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) are more effectively and promising. Progresses on five representative types of AOPs, including Fenton (like) oxidation, electrochemical oxidation, photocatalytic oxidation, ozonation and discharge plasma oxidation for heavy metal complexes degradation are summarized in this review. Their rationales, advantages, applications, challenges and prospects are introduced independently. Combinations among these AOPs, such as electrochemical Fenton oxidation and photoelectrocatalytic oxidation, are also comprehensively highlighted. Future efforts should be made to reduce acid requirement and scale up for practical applications of AOPs for heavy metal complex degradation efficiently and cost-effectively.