Use of Fenton‐Oxidation and a Helicoidal Flux Reactor in the Removal of Doxycycline: Optimization and By‐Products Identification

Abstract Doxycycline (DOX) is a contaminant present in different water bodies. Fenton and photo‐Fenton are two advanced oxidation technologies with a high potential for environmental remediation. This study aimed to eliminate DOX from aqueous solutions using Fenton, photo‐Fenton, and a helicoidal flow reactor. The experimental conditions related to the presence of ferrous ions and hydrogen peroxide were optimized. After 60 min of reaction, the extents of pollutant elimination and mineralization were ∼85.0 % and ∼30.0 %, respectively. Hydroxyl radicals were identified as the agents responsible for the oxidation of the contaminant under the evaluated experimental conditions. Finally, some reaction by‐products were identified, and a DOX removal route was proposed.