Electrochemical Oxidation of Landfill Leachate; Performance of Boron-Doped Diamond Anodes

Electrochemical oxidation by means of boron-doped diamond (BDD) anodes generates a very efficient oxidizing environment by forming hydroxyl radicals, which provide effective water purification and can eliminate persistent pollutants. The leachate of municipal waste landfill is known for its complex composition and its refractory behaviour against biological treatment. Hence BDD electro-oxidation is an efficient and universal treatment method to address critical constituents in wastewater.

 

Experiments were performed in laboratory and pilot scale. In the pilot plant two electrochemical cells were installed, each had a BDD anode area of 1.05 m² and operated at a maximum current density of 2000 A/m². Treatment efficiency was evaluated in terms of TOC, COD and inorganic components (ammonium, calcium, chloride, magnesium, nitrate, sulphate). Performance parameters (TOC/COD removal, energy consumption, process stability) of laboratory and pilot plant were compared and the optimum operation conditions were determined. The analysis of results confirms the high reliability of electrochemical oxidation for wastewater treatment.