Optimization of Electrocoagulation on Removal of Wastewater Pollutants

Abstract

In this work the performance of electrocoagulation (EC) process was investigated and optimized under different operational conditions for the best removal of wastewater contaminants such as Nitrate, total hardness, Calcium and Magnesium. Samples were obtained from Gaza Wastewater Treatment Plant (GWWTP). Under the optimal condition (pH=7.45, inter-electrode spacing=1 cm, operating time=40 minutes and current density=3.18 mA/cm 2), the results showed that the removal efficiency of total hardness, Calcium, Magnesium, Nitrate were 94.6%, 93.3%, 95.2% and 70.9% respectively by using stainless steel electrodes, while for aluminum electrodes the results were 92.83%, 93.33%, 92.30%, 50.43% respectively. For Iron electrodes, the removal efficiencies of contaminants were 87.84%, 88%, 87.64%, 57.26% respectively. In addition, the experimental results also showed that the effluent wastewater was very clear, odorless and its quality is fit for reuse.