Phosphorus recovery from industrial effluents through chemical and electrochemical precipitation: a critical review
Carlos Y. Sousa, Inês Gomes, Albertina Bento Amaro, Annabel Fernandes
Abstract
Abstract Phosphorus is a key topic in sustainable development due to its extreme importance for sectors like agricultural production and the chemical industry. Currently, the main phosphorus source is an ore called phosphate rock, a non-renewable resource whose mining contributes to geopolitical issues and environmental concerns. Phosphorus recovery arises as a technology that can provide a new phosphorus source and avoid environmental problems associated with the phosphorus excess in waterbodies. Among the main methods available, chemical and, particularly, electrochemical methods are promising due to their unique advantages. This paper presents a general review of chemical and electrochemical technologies developed to recover phosphorus from wastewater. An overview of the fundamental aspects of these technologies is provided, as well as updated information on their application to industrial effluents. The effect of the main process variables on the phosphorus recovery effectiveness is discussed, and a critical analysis of the prime benefits and drawbacks of its application is made. Graphical abstract