UVA/TIO2 SYSTEM FOR DECONTAMINATION OF POLLUTED WATERS BY CANCER DRUGS: IFOSFAMIDE AND CYCLOPHOSPHAMIDE

The aim of this study is to show potential of photocatalysis for degradation of ifosfamide and cyclophosphamide in matrix water. Effect of titanium dioxide (TiO2) and the matrices water have been studied. UVA/TiO2 tests has been made in a photoreactor equipped with a UVA lamp. Results showed that more than 80% abatement is obtained after 8 hours of irradiation in ultra-pure water for 0.1 to 1 g/L TiO2 and in tap water respectively for concentrations of 0.5 g/L to 1 g/L TiO2. Rate of degradation increased for concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 0.5 g/L TiO2 in ultrapure water solutions. However, this rate is increased for 1 g/L of TiO2 in the tap water. This difference highlights influence of chemical quality of the matrix to be depolluted. total organic carbon is greater than 70 % for 1 g/L. Results have indicated the photocatalytic process is effective for the degradation of pharmaceutical molecules in water matrix. In future, titanium dioxide would to fix on non-polluting materials will be undertaken order mix in the material. This will permit to avoid suspension and reduce treatment costs and toxicity after photocatalytic treatments of wastewater.