Model-based development of cell voltage control system for modified bio-electro-Fenton process.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Engineering
• Electrochemistry
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Wastewater treatment faces challenges with biodegradable and recalcitrant organic pollutants.
• Conventional methods often lack efficiency and energy optimization.
• Bio-electro-Fenton (BEF) processes offer potential for combined biological and electrochemical treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate a modified bio-electro-Fenton (M-BEF) process with enhanced organic removal and energy savings.
• To investigate the impact of operating schemes on energy consumption using model-based design.
• To develop an automatic cell voltage control system for optimized wastewater treatment.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a modified bio-electro-Fenton (M-BEF) process in a continuous-flow reactor.
• Integration of an automatic cell voltage control system.
• Utilizing model-based design (MBD) for simulations and analysis of energy usage.
• Treatment of synthetic wastewater containing glucose and biphenyl.

Main Results:

• The M-BEF process achieved stable effluent chemical oxygen demand (COD) concentrations between 2-6 mg L⁻¹.
• COD removal efficiency was unstable (<70%) without an external voltage supply.
• The automatic cell voltage control system resulted in a 90% power saving compared to continuous supply.
• The M-BEF process successfully integrated bioelectricity generation, H₂O₂ production, and Fenton reaction.

Conclusions:

• The M-BEF process with cell voltage control is highly effective for organic pollutant removal and energy saving.
• Automatic cell voltage control is crucial for stable and efficient wastewater treatment.
• Further research on diverse environmental samples can optimize real-time power management and treatment efficacy.