Suárez A., Agudelo N.
Universidad Libre, CO
Keywords: electrocoagulation, heavy metal removal, wastewater
The Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was employed to investigate the effects of pH and current density on the removal of cadmium, copper and zinc in a artificial wastewater with a large COD by electrocoagulation technique. Six iron electrodes were used in a 2 l reactor with agitation. A regulated AC/DC power supply was used maintained a constant voltage/current. The initial samples were prepared with a COD of 10000 mg/l, oils and grease of 2000 mg/l, and heavy metals concentration of 250 mg/l. The initial and final concentrations were measured by atomic absorption spectrometer. Removal of more than 99% was obtained during the process for 60 minutes of application time. The conditions for optimal removal were at pH of 8 and a intensity of 3A for cadmium, pH of 7.02 and Intensity of 3 A for copper and zinc.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: Technical Proceedings of the 2011 Clean Technology Conference and Trade Show
Published: June 13, 2011
Pages: 248 - 250
Industry sector: Energy & Sustainability
Topic: Water Technologies
ISBN: 978-1-4398-8189-7