Work

Enhancing Electrokinetic Remediation of Cu- and Pb-Contaminated Loess Using Irregular Electrode Configurations: A Numerical Investigation of Transport and Remediation Mechanisms

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The strong adsorption capacity of loess poses a significant limitation to the electrokinetic (EK) remediation process. Modified EK technologies, such as graphene oxide-alginate composite hydrogel (GOCH) electrodes, are increasingly employed for the remediation of heavy metal-contaminated loess. However, the complex interactions among multiple physical fields within these modified systems remain poorly understood. This study utilizes COMSOL Multiphysics version 6.0 to simulate diffusion, electromigration, electroosmotic flow, adsorption, and chemical reactions in loess contaminated with copper (Cu) and lead (Pb). A chemical precipitation and ion transport model, governed by the Nernst–Planck equation, was validated through a comparison of simulation results with experimental data. The investigation examines the effects of electrode placement and size on EK efficiency, revealing that diagonally placed irregular electrodes optimize the electric field, minimize ineffective regions, and enhance ion migration. Larger electrodes enhance current density, whereas smaller electrodes mitigate edge shielding effects. This research offers strategic insights into electrode configuration for improved EK remediation of Cu-Pb-contaminated loess, achieving greater efficiency than traditional systems.

Source: Processes

DOI: 10.3390/pr13071948

Authors: Xinwen Wang, Wenle Hu

Institutions: Luoyang Institute of Science and Technology, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Henan University

Language: English

Topic: Electrokinetic Soil Remediation Techniques

Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Clean water and sanitation

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896