(426d) 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.