Spectrophotometric Oxidative Decolorization of Methyl Red with Chloramine-T and Bromamine-T: Comparative Kinetic Modeling and Mechanistic Study

Methyl Red (MR) is a synthetic mono-azo dye which is extensively used as a colorant in textile and paper printing industries. The widespread amount of MR dye in wastewater poses potential threat to ecosystem and human health. In this context, we have developed a simple and expeditious oxidative decolorization technique for the removal of MR dye by organic N-haloamines viz., chloramine-T (CAT) and bromamine-T (BAT) present in the wastewater. The reaction was focused to changes in: (i) concentration of p-toluenesulfonamide, (ii) ionic strength, (iii) dielectric permittivity, (iv) polymerization study, and (v) halide ions effects. The activation parameters were deduced. Oxidation products of MR dye were identified. The rate of oxidation of MR is about four times faster with BAT than with CAT. The chemical oxygen demand value of the dye was determined. Phytotoxicity and economic analysis were carried out for the proposed decolorization process. A plausible mechanism conforming the kinetic data, reaction stoichiometry and product analysis has been proposed. Further, the present redox system can be adopted for treating MR dye present in industrial effluents with suitable modifications to reduce the toxicity caused by MR dye in wastewater.