Abstract
ABSTRACT Acid mine drainage was evaluated using a galvanic (GV) electrochemical system, Al–Cu (anode/cathode), based on a 32 factorial design. The factors analyzed were anodic area/volume ratios (A/V) of 0.037, 0.072, and 0.112 cm2/cm3, and treatment time from 0.25–8 h, and analyses were performed in duplicate with 11 degrees of freedom. The response variables were the total dissolved solids and concentrations of As, Cu, Co, Cr, Pb, Fe, Ni, and . The pH, electrical conductivity, and temperature were monitored during the process. Significant differences between treatments were determined by analysis of variance with Tukey’s test (p < 0.05) using Statgraphics Centurion XVI.I software. The results showed that a greater electrode surface, A/V ratio, and treatment time improved pollutant removal. The spontaneous reactions generated by the galvanic cell, through the current that flows owing to the potential difference between the Al and Cu electrodes, allows the removal of heavy metals, arsenic, and by coagulation and precipitation mechanisms. The removal efficiencies achieved were Cu (99.1%), As (76.6%), Ni (80.2%), Pb (83.6%), Cr (100%), Fe (93.71%), and 92.9% for sulfates. The X-ray diffraction and Raman analyses of the solid fraction indicated that cuprite was formed with a purity of 96%, and the recovery of Cu by the GV system may be a viable option for mining companies.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
