Improving ozone-based processes for the degradation of paraquat and diquat as persistent pesticides

did not significantly improve the process; however, photocatalytic ozonation at a pilot scale achieved the highest mineralization rates and total contaminant removal. Ecotoxicity assays using Aliivibrio fischeri revealed toxicity in generated transformation products, particularly at lower ozone dosages, necessitating optimized exposure times to ensure safe effluent discharge. Furthermore, by leveraging renewable solar radiation and optimizing the ozone dosage, the overall energy demand is significantly reduced, offering a highly sustainable and cost-effective approach. This work demonstrates the effectiveness of integrated solar ozonation processes for the treatment of point-source herbicide contamination.