Multistep method for separating dissolved organic compounds from a solution

摘要

A process for separating dissolved organic solutes from a solution is provided. The process includes the steps of mixing the solution with a surfactant in order that the surfactant adsorbs substantially all of the organic solutes and forms a surfactant/organic solute aggregate. The aggregate is then separated from the solution by either reducing the solubility of the surfactant, ultrafiltration of the solution or foam fractionation of the solution. If it is desired to re-use the surfactant, the surfactant/organic solute aggregate is further treated in order to desorb the organic solutes from the surfactant.