Complete and Ultra-Rapid Remediation of a Contaminated Site Using the Heterogeneous Fenton Method

Abstract

Remediation of areas contaminated by hydrocarbons is one of the greatest challenges in environmental engineering, demanding effective, rapid, and low-cost solutions. This work presents the rational development and field application of the Heterogeneous Fenton method for the degradation of total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) in contaminated soil. The process uses zero-valent iron (Fe⁰) as a heterogeneous catalyst and hydrogen peroxide as the oxidant, promoting sustained generation of hydroxyl radicals and efficient removal of contaminants, even in complex matrices. Through experimental design (DoE), application conditions were optimized, resulting in efficiencies greater than 90% for TPH removal and 85% for unresolved complex mixture (UCM) in just five days of reaction. The method proved to be 20 to 30 times faster than conventional technologies and approximately 50% less expensive compared to other advanced oxidation processes. The field case study confirms that the planned application of the Heterogeneous Fenton process can achieve complete remediation of contaminated areas in record time, quickly releasing sites for safe and sustainable use with reduced environmental impacts. The results highlight the potential of this process to redefine standards of efficiency and cost-effectiveness in the environmental remediation of contaminated soils.