Advanced oxidation process and biological treatments for table olive processing wastewaters: constraints and a novel...

Table olive processing wastewaters constitute a dangerous environmental problem in the Mediterranean countries because of their large volumes, high organic matter and salt concentration. The quantity and the characteristics of wastewaters produced, and thus, their environmental impact, varied depending on the season, varieties, soil and process employed. Several chemicals, biological and combined technologies have proven effective at bringing down organic pollution and toxicity of these effluents. Advanced oxidation processes have recognized as highly efficient treatments for the degradation of organic matter. Nonetheless, complete mineralization is generally expensive without salt removal. Biological processes are the most environmentally compatible and least-expensive treatment methods, but these operations do not always provide satisfactory results. This article surveys the current available technologies and suggests an effective, cheaper alternative for the recycling and the valorization of green table olives wastewaters.