Authors : Edna Montanez-Hurtado and Laura Pramparo
Abstract: Due to the persistent feature of some compounds commonly found in wastewaters, their treatment is very difficult through conventional processes. Therefore, alternatives among which arises the enzymatic treatment are in continuously sought. The objective of this research is to analyze the feasibility of degradation of a widely used pharmaceutical compound, diclofenac, using the enzyme Horseradish peroxidase as a catalyst of the reaction. Very promising results were obtained, since, there is no evidence of the use of this enzyme for the elimination of diclofenac compound. The influence of the initial concentration of enzyme and hydrogen peroxide in the removal efficiency is analyzed. A maximum value of removing close to 47% was reached when hydrogen peroxide and diclofenac were used in stoichiometric quantities. The operating conditions were also studied. It was observed that reaction can be performed in a pH range between 6-9 and temperatures from 20-50°C.
Edna Montanez-Hurtado and Laura Pramparo, 2018. Degradation of a Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug Using Horseradish Peroxidase Enzyme. Research Journal of Applied Sciences, 13: 425-430.