4-Chlorophenol degradation by pulsed high voltage discharge coupling internal electrolysis

Area of Science:

• Environmental Chemistry
• Water Treatment Technologies
• Electrochemistry

Background:

• 4-chlorophenol (4-CP) is a persistent organic pollutant requiring efficient removal methods.
• Conventional discharge systems show limited utilization of generated hydrogen peroxide for pollutant degradation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel pulsed high voltage discharge coupling internal electrolysis (PHVDCIE) system for 4-chlorophenol removal.
• To investigate the enhanced generation and utilization of hydroxyl radicals in the PHVDCIE system for improved degradation efficiency.

Main Methods:

• Development of a PHVDCIE system for aqueous 4-CP treatment.
• Analysis of hydroxyl radical formation rates in sole discharge versus PHVDCIE systems.
• Monitoring of 4-CP removal efficiency and intermediate product formation over time.

Main Results:

• The PHVDCIE system significantly enhanced hydroxyl radical formation (5.28 x 10(-7) mol L(-1)s(-1) with oxygen) compared to the sole discharge system (1.49 x 10(-7) mol L(-1)s(-1)).
• Over 90% removal efficiency of 4-CP was achieved within 36 minutes using the PHVDCIE system.
• Increased degradation led to the production of intermediate products like formic, acetic, and oxalic acids.

Conclusions:

• PHVDCIE system effectively utilizes hydrogen peroxide for Fenton-like reactions, generating more hydroxyl radicals.
• The enhanced hydroxyl radical yield directly accelerates 4-CP degradation, offering a superior water treatment solution.
• The system demonstrates high efficiency for removing 4-chlorophenol, with potential for further optimization.