In the present work, batch electrocoagulation experiments were carried out
to evaluate the removal of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAHs) from water
using aluminum electrodes. The effects of initial pH, current density,
electrolysis time, initi
al concentration of PAHs, electrolyte type, and electrolyte
concentration were investigated to achieve the optimal removal efficiency. The
results indicated that the electrocoagulation utilizing the aluminum, as anode
and cathode, was an efficient tool in the reduction of these contaminants. The
treatment process was found to be largely affected by the current density and
the initial composition of water. The removal rate was significantly increased
using NaCl as an electrolyte where indirect oxidation by hypochlorite forming
later during the treatment was occurred. The results demonstrated that the
technical feasibility of the electrocoagulation as a possible and reliable
technique for the treatment of PAHs contaminants in water.
