The potential of using ultrasonic irradiation for the removal of sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate (SDBS) from aqueous solutions has been investigated. Experiments were performed at initial concentrations of 15, 30 and 100 mgl(-1), ultrasonic frequencies of 20 and 80 kHz, applied power values of 45, 75 and 150 W and liquid bulk temperatures of 20, 40 and 60 degrees C. At the conditions in question, SDBS conversion was found to decrease with increasing temperature and initial solute concentration and decreasing power and frequency. Investigations using the radical scavengers 1-butanol and KBr revealed that SDBS degradation proceeds through radical reactions occurring predominately at the bubble-liquid interface and, to a lesser extent, in the liquid bulk. Addition of NaCl or H(2)O(2) had little or even an adverse effect on SDBS conversion. Conversely, addition of Fe(2+) either alone or in conjunction with H(2)O(2) (Fenton reagent) had a positive effect on degradation. Finally, shake flask tests with activated sludge were performed to assess the aerobic biodegradability before and after sonochemical treatment. At the conditions under consideration, the use of ultrasound enhanced the aerobic degradability of the substrate in question.