Electrochemical Modulation of Odorant Molecule: A Study of p-cresol

Abstract

p-Cresol modulation was for the first time evaluated as an alternative option for odor control in sanitation facilities. Results indicate that the oxidation of p-cresol can generate 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde (4-HB), a molecule with a sweet-woody odor, following the introduction of chloride ions into the supporting electrolyte. In an attempt to impede electrode fouling, pulsed chronoamperometry (CA) was implemented and resulted in ∼10% higher p-cresol removal compared to CA at constant potential. Boron doped diamond (BDD) was also explored as an alternative working electrode. p-Cresol oxidation on the diamond surface resulted in higher removal percentages, but the desired oxidation product was not detected by Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) likely due to complete combustion.