Strategies for Reducing Disinfection By-Products Formation during Electrocoagulation
Djamel Ghernaout, Noureddine Elboughdiri
Abstract
During the last three decades, the electrocoagulation (EC) process has known an exemplary renaissance in the field of water and wastewater treatment. Several researchers focused on applying this electrochemical technology in removing diverse pollutants such as pathogens and organic matters. During EC application, the hazards of formation of highly toxic disinfection by-products (DBPs) are more and more proved especially in water containing organic matter and halogens especially chloride. This work presents a brief view on the questions related to such issues and challenges. Great efforts remain to be accomplished towards the comprehension of the inherent phenomena related to removing both microorganisms and organic matters in the EC method. Using granular activated carbon post-treatment could hugely diminish the levels and toxicity of DBPs. Further, safe multi-barrier methods, such as distillation and membrane processes, have to be adopted.