Electrochemical oxidation using boron-doped diamond (BDD) electrodes is widely being studied as an alternative to other advanced oxidation processes (AOPs). However, recent work in our laboratories indicates that the oxidation of chloride-containing waters with BDD electrodes results in toxic perchlorate production, which is mediated by functional groups at the electrode surface.  Thus, the objective of this work is to investigate the effect of electrode functional groups (e.g., C-H, C-OH, C-F) on both rates of organic compound oxidation and perchlorate formation.  A series of batch and cyclic voltammetry experiments, coupled with XPS analysis were used to understand the relationship between reactivity and surface functional groups. Results indicate that perchlorate formation is limited on electrodes with a high density of C-OH groups. Additional studies focused on organic compound oxidation with a series of p-substituted phenols will be used to illustrate a relationship between electrode functional groups and organic compound oxidation rates.

Effects of surface functional groups on boron-doped diamond electrodes on organic compound oxidation and perchlorate formation

244th National Meeting (2012)

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