Innovative electrocoagulation strategies for landfill leachate treatment: Comparative analysis of aluminum and iron electrodes

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study investigates landfill leachate treatment using aluminum (Al-Al) and iron (Fe-Fe) electrodes in electrocoagulation (EC). Aluminum experiments revealed COD removal percentages of 22% (pH 7.4) and 20% (pH 6.0), while iron demonstrated higher efficiency at 32% (pH 7.4) and 30% (pH 6.0). Both processes excelled at neutral pH, with Fe-Fe EC displaying superior removal efficiency. To address electrode passivation, external aeration improved COD removal (31% to 61%) under specific conditions (3 V, pH 7.4, 60 min). The EC process established a neutralization mechanism, eliminating the need for further treatment before discharge. External aeration and polarity changes at intervals mitigated passivation, enhancing COD removal (61% to 69%). Voltage testing (1 V, 3 V, 5 V, 7 V) revealed a direct correlation, peaking at 91% efficiency with 5 V. Specific energy consumption was 2.34 kWh g−1, and sludge generation varied with voltage. The combined use of external aeration and polarity shifts resulted in 270 ml of sludge, demonstrating improved efficiency in the EC process.