[Preparation of a novel graphite electrode and its effect on phenol degradation]

In order to find an effective, stable, environmentally compatible electrode for the elimination of organic pollutants, preparation of a novel graphite electrode (NGE) was explored using graphite, epoxy resin, curing agent and acetone as materials. Water, ethanol aqueous solution, acetone, ultrasound-acetone and electrochemical method were used to pretreat the electrode. The first three methods obtained poor effect. Ultrasound-acetone could improve the pretreatment, but satisfied results were difficult to achieve. Electrochemical method could work effectively. Electrochemical oxidation of phenol was carried out on NGE and commercial graphite electrode (CGE), respectively. UV spectroscopy was used to study evolution of phenol oxidation. The results showed that CGE resulted in accumulation of bensoquine in the electrolyte, though it was more effective than NGE on phenol oxidation. While much less benzoquinone was found in the electrolyte for NGE. TOC removal rate were 40% and 31% for NGE and CGE, respectively. SEM study showed that CGE was severely corroded after phenol degradation, while NGE was undamaged, showing good stability.