Iron-Carbon Micro-electrolysis

Mit Water provides iron-carbon micro-electrolysis systems for pre-treatment of industrial wastewater containing refractory and toxic organic compounds. This process uses the galvanic cell effect formed between iron and carbon particles to generate reactive species that degrade organic pollutants and improve biodegradability.

Working Principle

When wastewater passes through a packed bed of iron filings and granular activated carbon under acidic conditions, numerous microscopic galvanic cells are formed. Iron acts as the anode, releasing Fe2+ ions and electrons, while carbon acts as the cathode. The resulting electrochemical reactions generate reactive species including hydroxyl radicals and atomic hydrogen, which break down organic molecules.

System Features

Our iron-carbon reactors are constructed from acid-resistant materials with internal media support and distribution systems. The system includes pH adjustment, aeration, media regeneration and a PLC control panel. Post-treatment typically includes neutralisation, coagulation and sedimentation to remove iron precipitates.

Iron-carbon micro-electrolysis is suited to challenging industrial wastewaters:

  • Chemical and dyestuff manufacturing wastewater
  • Pharmaceutical intermediate production wastewater
  • Pesticide and herbicide manufacturing wastewater
  • Electroplating wastewater with organic additives
  • Coking and coal chemical wastewater
  • Printing and dyeing wastewater pre-treatment
  • Landfill leachate pre-treatment to improve BOD/COD ratio

Technical Parameters

COD Removal30% to 70%
Operating pH2.5 to 4.5
Hydraulic Retention Time30 to 120 minutes
Iron-to-Carbon Ratio1:1 to 3:1 (by weight)
Reactor MaterialPP, FRP, or rubber-lined carbon steel
BOD/COD Improvement0.1 to 0.3 typical increase
AerationIntermittent or continuous to prevent media compaction
Control SystemPLC with pH control and level monitoring