Materials, electrodes, and system design for heterogeneous electro-Fenton remediation

Urbanization, industrialization, and changing climate challenge our ability to provide clean water to a growing global population. This challenge is further exacerbated by the widespread presence and persistence of organic pollutants that resist degradation by conventional methods to treat wastewater. Heterogeneous electro-Fenton methods are emerging as an effective route for the remediation of refractory organic species. In this chapter, we give an overview of electro-Fenton systems, discussing such characteristics as materials and electrode design for H₂O₂ generation, Fenton catalysis, and anodic oxidation. Photo- and bio-electro-Fenton systems are introduced, and design influences of electro-Fenton flow reactors are considered. Finally, we give our perspective on the state of research on heterogeneous electro-Fenton systems and discuss the need for more standardization in determining pollutant-degradation performance from lab scale to practical electro-Fenton applications.