Advances in electrochemical technologies for sustainable wastewater treatment and chemical synthesis: mechanisms, challenges, and prospects

In the realm of industrial water reclamation, conventional techniques and advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) often fall short in addressing challenges posed by organic pollutants. Electrochemical technologies are emerging as a promising solution, particularly for the removal of biorefractory substances. This comprehensive review delves into the intricacies of various electrochemical tools for treating wastewater contaminated with organic pollutants. The objectives encompass elucidating fundamental process aspects, exploring the influence of operational parameters and reactor design on performance, critically evaluating pros and cons, and envisioning their practical application potential by identifying key investigatory points. The discussion covers direct electrochemical oxidation, indirect electrochemical oxidation via electrogenerated active chlorine, and the synergy between anodic and cathodic processes. The review also critically assesses reactor options for implementing these technologies. Another aspect addressed pertains to capacitive deionization (CDI), an essential desalination process relying on electrical double layer formation. A subcategory, intercalation capacitive deionization (ICDI), harnesses intercalation materials to achieve desalination through ion insertion into electrode crystal structures upon applying voltage.