From complex molecules to harmless byproducts: Electrocoagulation process for water contaminants degradation
Eliasu Issaka
Abstract
As a realistic decontamination strategy and an economically critical component of long-term water surveillance, a detailed understanding of electrocoagulation processes (ECP) for the remediation of water contaminants remains vital. When compared to chemical coagulation, ECP delivers greater removal capacities for comparable particles and does not require any chemical additions. The EC approach generates numerous metal ions in a solution by applying an electrical current. The resultant electro-generated coagulants comprise metal hydroxides (MeOH-), which function as an efficient adsorbent for organic pollutants (OPs) and inorganic pollutants (IOPs), causing the formation and rise of flocs onto the electrolyte surface via sweep flotation. For a deeper comprehension of ECP for the decontamination of wastewater, this research critically examines existing ECP trends. It focuses on the mechanistic insights of electrodes and EC systems, in addition to the myriad of EC catalysts and the influence of various operational parameters on the reaction mechanism. Ultimately, the study builds on freshly published research to uncover varied ECP applications, namely strategies that integrate ECP with the water treatment process. The prospects of ECP in water treatment are promising and multifaceted owing to its adaptable treatment capabilities, integration possibilities with other processes and operational advantages.