Coupling anodic oxidation, biosorption and alternating current as alternative for wastewater purification

Abstract

Anodic oxidation process is considered as an effective solution for the treatment of refractory effluents. Its performance is strongly depending on the stability of the anodes used during the process. For this reason, we aim to enhance the stability of the SS/PbO₂ anodes electrodeposited by pulsed current while studying their performance for the anodic oxidation of methylene blue and industrial textile wastewater. The basic idea deals with the possibility to replace the expensive alternatives used for reinforcing the steadiness of the anodes during the anodic oxidation by a simple method based on coupling electrochemical oxidation with biosorption by vegetable material (Luffa cylindrica). The performance of the coupling process was optimized based on its performance in colored and industrial wastewater depollution. Results confirmed the efficiency of the coupling process where 98.7 and 80.02% of methylene blue were removed, respectively, after 60 and 120 min for alternating and direct current. Otherwise, 62.84 and 46.87% of methylene blue were removed by anodic oxidation, respectively, after 120 and 180 min for alternating and direct current. The % COD obtained for the anodic oxidation and the coupling process reached 57.45, 33.61, 91.32 and 75.48% respectively for alternating and direct current. The use of alternating current for both processes has enhanced the speed and the efficiency. Atomic absorption analysis has confirmed that the rates obtained of Pb²⁺ complied with those allowed by the Standards. LC/MS analysis allowed the identification of by-products generated and the germination tests proved the reuse of the treated water.

Keywords: Alternating current; Anodic oxidation; Biosorption; Coupling; SS/PbO(2).