Simultaneous solid-liquid separation and wastewater disinfection using an electrochemical dynamic membrane filtration...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Electrochemistry
• Water Treatment Engineering

Background:

• Conventional wastewater treatment often involves multiple stages for effective solid-liquid separation and disinfection.
• Electrode fouling is a significant challenge in electrochemical water treatment systems, reducing efficiency and lifespan.
• Achieving high-level disinfection with simultaneous fouling control remains a critical goal in wastewater management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate an electrochemical dynamic membrane filtration (EDMF) system for simultaneous solid-liquid separation and sewage disinfection.
• To assess the disinfection efficiency and long-term performance of the EDMF system under continuous flow conditions.
• To elucidate the mechanism of bacterial inactivation mediated by reactive oxygen species (ROS) within the EDMF system.

Main Methods:

• An EDMF system was designed and operated at a low voltage (2.5 V) for wastewater treatment.
• Bacterial log removal efficiency was measured to quantify disinfection performance.
• Transmembrane pressure (TMP) was monitored to assess membrane fouling and system stability.
• Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and their role in bacterial inactivation were investigated.

Main Results:

• The EDMF system achieved ~100% log removal efficiency, indicating complete bacterial inactivation in the effluent.
• Continuous flow tests demonstrated sustained disinfection performance (~100% log removal) over extended periods.
• The EDMF system effectively protected electrodes from fouling and maintained stable operation with periodic cleaning.
• In contrast, systems without a dynamic membrane showed significantly reduced disinfection efficiency within a week.

Conclusions:

• The EDMF system provides a highly efficient and stable solution for simultaneous wastewater disinfection and solid-liquid separation.
• Reactive oxygen species (ROS), particularly hydroxyl radicals (HO•) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), are the primary agents responsible for bacterial inactivation.
• The EDMF technology shows significant potential for practical application in advanced wastewater treatment and disinfection processes.