Removal of phenol from coupling of talc and peroxidase. Application for depollution of waste water containing phenolic compounds

The degradation of phenol by a combination of horseradish peroxidase/hydrogen peroxide in the presence of talc, a natural abundant and low cost mineral, was investigated. Adsorption of the reaction products on the talc effectively protected the biocatalyst against contamination by oxidative products, thereby prolonging its catalytic action and leading to almost complete elimination of phenols in aqueous media. Suitable conditions for depollution of waste water containing phenolic substances were developed after optimization of various parameters (type and amount of talc, reaction duration).