Elimination of estrogen and its estrogenicity by heterogeneous photo-Fenton catalyst β-FeOOH/resin

β-FeOOH loaded resin (β-FeOOH/resin) was synthesized through in situ hydrolysis of Fe(III)-exchanged resin and its physiochemical properties were characterized. The typical environmental endocrine disruptor, natural hormone 17β-estradiol (E2) was removed by heterogeneous photo-Fenton reaction in presence of β-FeOOH/resin and H₂O₂ under weak UV irradiation. E2 degradation was effectively achieved by hydroxyl radicals that were generated in the heterogeneous photo-Fenton process. pH was an important factor that affected efficiency of E2 degradation and catalyst's surface activity which were determined by X-ray photoelectron spectrum (XPS). The mechanical stability and photo activity of β-FeOOH/resin were tested by several cycles of photo catalytic degradation and FTIR. The reduction of estrogenicity of E2 would be very important to the safety of treated water so as to avoid secondary pollution. It seems that the heterogeneous Fenton oxidation would be a promising method to eliminate the steroid estrogenic compounds.