ABSTRACT
As a result of worldwide urbanization and industrialization, numerous toxic and hazardous organic compounds have found their way into surface and ground waters, both of which are the source of drinking water. The disposal of over 40,000 organic chemicals used by various industries in the United States has resulted in a broad range of hazardous waste problems. The amount of industrial wastewater containing these recalcitrant pollutants is increasing significantly. Many of these chemicals are resistant to degradation and pose a potential health threat to the human population. In addition, many hazardous waste materials are recalcitrant, normally nonbiodegradable, and even toxic to microorganisms; therefore, physicochemical treatment techniques are better alternatives than biological treatment.
