Work

Enhanced anaerobic degradation of 2,4,6-trichlorophenol through electrochemical advanced oxidation pretreatment

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Industrial wastewater containing 2,4,6-trichlorophenol (TCP) presents significant treatment challenges due to its high biological resistance and toxicity. This study developed a novel approach by combining electrochemical advanced oxidation process (eAOP) and anaerobic digestion (AD) to address these issues. The effects of TCP concentration (500 or 100 ppm), electrolyte type (NaCl or Na 2 SO 4 ), and electrolysis degree (0 %, 70 %, or 100 %) on TCP removal, biomethane production, and volatile fatty acid (VFA) profiles were evaluated. Results showed that eAOP pretreatment with 70 % TCP degradation in Na 2 SO 4 significantly improved biodegradability at high TCP levels, enabling complete TCP removal by AD within 10 days. Although eAOP pretreatment in NaCl achieved a faster degradation and less energy consumption, more chlorinated transformation products (TPs) were produced, which could be more toxic than the parent pollutant. This combined process also mitigated the inhibitory effects of TCP on methanogenesis during AD. The study highlights a promising strategy for enhancing the biodegradation of toxic chlorophenols in industrial wastewater.

Source: Journal of Water Process Engineering

DOI: 10.1016/j.jwpe.2025.108461

Authors: Yutong Guo, Najmeh Askari, Zhe Deng, Barbara Brusca, Ilse Smets, Lise Appels

Institution: KU Leuven

Language: English

Topic: Advanced oxidation water treatment

Subfield: Water Science and Technology

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Clean water and sanitation, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,350