Removal of Emerging Contaminants Present in Wastewater by Electrocoagulation Process

Abstract

Electrochemical water treatment methods are effective treatment technologies for municipal wastewater and industrial effluents. Various electrochemical methods are electrocoagulation, peroxi-coagulation, electro-fenton process, etc. This chapter has been devoted to the discussion of the electrocoagulation (EC) process, which offers the treatment of a wide variety of pollutants in an eco-friendly context. The technology is a combination of both electrochemical and coagulation process. It is an effective alternative to conventional treatment techniques. In this technique, no or minimum addition of coagulating agents is made and the in situ coagulants are generated by the electrolytic oxidation of the sacrificial anode. Therefore, it reduces the production of sludge and significantly decreases the cost of sludge management. The key factors which affect the performance of electrocoagulation include the electrode material, solution pH, applied currents, etc. and are explained in detail. This technique can effectively remove almost 99.5% of various emerging contaminants such as dyes, heavy metals, pesticides, antibiotics, oils, fluorides, etc. Hence, the EC method could be cost-effective, safe, and easy to operate and is the most reliable choice to account for the growing water shortage. However, like any other method, EC also has some disadvantages that could limit its application. In addition, users will find the discussions on the fundamental principles, developments, applications in the textile industry, pharmaceutical industry, urban/domestic wastewater, etc., limitations and advantages and disadvantages of electrocoagulation technology, and the role of key operating parameters on the performance of the process. The final sections present the ways to combine renewable energy sources with effective sludge disposal to design sustainable facilities.