An In- Depth Investigation of the Emerging Role of Electrocoagulation in Cutting Edge Wastewater Treatment Practices

Abstract

Electrocoagulation (EC) has emerged
as a promising and sustainable technology for
the treatment of various water sources
contaminated with diverse pollutants. This
electrochemical process entails administering an
electrical current to destabilize and remove
contaminants through coagulation and
precipitation mechanisms. The efficiency and
versatility of EC make it a viable solution for
addressing challenges related to wastewater
treatment, industrial effluent remediation, and
potable water production. The utilization of
wastewater as an alternative water source is
gaining prominence due to the combined
pressures of rapid population expansion,
heightened freshwater demand, climate change,
and freshwater resource degradation.
Urbanization and industrialization have led to a
surge in wastewater production and
diversification. Wastewaters contain an
extensive range of organic and inorganic
pollutants, necessitating a variety of wastewater
treatment technologies for their effective
removal. Electrocoagulation (EC) is a versatile,
dependable, and affordable wastewater
treatment technology with high efficiency in
removing pollutants, as well as low sludge
production compared to other methods. EC can
effectively remove a wide range of pollutants
from wastewater, containing suspended solids,
dissolved solids, heavy metals, oil and grease,
and organic matter which does not necessitate
the use of harsh chemicals, which reduces the
risk of environmental damage.