Russian Scientists Develop Electrochemical Reactor to Eliminate Water Contaminants

Original article: Científicos rusos desarrollan un reactor electroquímico para eliminar contaminantes del agua

Researchers from the Nanotechnology Scientific and Educational Center at the South Ural State University (SUSU) have developed and tested a continuous flow electrochemical reactor designed to purify water contaminated with Reactive Black 5, a dye widely used in the textile industry, according to information from the university’s website, a partner of the TV BRICS media network.

These compounds adhere effectively to fibers, but when released into wastewater, they pose an environmental challenge as they can persist in the ecosystem for extended periods, inhibit light penetration, and adversely affect aquatic organisms.

In contrast to traditional treatment methods such as filters, absorbents, ozone, or membrane technologies, the scientists proposed an innovative alternative that utilizes electric current. Contaminated water flows through the reactor, where a special electrode generates active particles capable of breaking down the dye molecules.

The system’s key innovation lies in its continuous flow design, which allows water to circulate through the reactor instead of remaining stagnant in a container, bringing the technology closer to real conditions for industrial wastewater treatment.

To enhance the device’s performance, the researchers employed a multilayer electrode modified with holmium, a rare earth element that improved cleaning efficiency and maintained material activity over multiple uses.

During laboratory tests, the solution containing Reactive Black 5 completely lost its color within 90 minutes. Furthermore, after 15 treatment cycles, the system’s effectiveness remained virtually unchanged.

The researchers emphasize that this technology could aid in the development of compact facilities for eliminating persistent organic pollutants from water.

Next steps include testing with actual wastewater and optimizing the reactor design.

Source: TV BRICS