Principles of Electrocoagulation and Application in Wastewater Treatment

Electrocoagulation has emerged a reliable technology for the treatment of various wastewaters. Its basic principle depends on the response of water particles to strong electric field in a redox reaction. Oxidation of the anode material releases coagulating agents that form metal hydroxide complexes which neutralize particulate materials to form agglomerates. The agglomerates either settle at the bottom or float to the surface depending on the removal path of the electrocoagulation reactor. The merits of electrocoagulation include minimal sludge generation, minimal operator attention, simple equipment, high pollutant removal capacity, and ease of operation. Therefore, this chapter explores the mechanisms of electrocoagulation, components of electrocoagulation, benefits, and demerits of electrocoagulation. Furthermore, the similarity between electrocoagulation and coagulation is explored. Application of electrocoagulation for the treatment of various wastewaters was explored. Feasibility of electrocoagulation was examined through cost evaluation with other treatment technologies.