Glossary

Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs) are chemical treatment methods that use powerful oxidizing agents, such as hydroxyl radicals or ozone, to break down and degrade complex pollutants and contaminants in wastewater.

Alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEs) are surfactants used as detergents in the textile industry, which can break down to release toxic nonylphenol, an endocrine disruptor linked to reproductive and developmental problems.

Alkylphenol ethoxylates

Advanced oxidation processes

Azo dyes are organic compounds bearing the functional group R−N=N−R′, in which R and R′ are usually aryl and substituted aryl groups. They are synthetic and do not occur naturally. Azo dyes comprise 60–70% of all dyes used to treat textiles, leather articles, and some foods. Chemically related derivatives of azo dyes include azo pigments, which are insoluble in water and other solvents.