Deionized water, highly contaminated with E. coli was treated using a non-chloride electrolyte solution such as sodium sulfate by pumping it through an electrochemical cell at low current (from 0.1 to 0.6 A) and initial voltage demand of 15-70 volts (close circulating system). It was found that in case of using stainless steel electrodes the sanitizing effect is mostly related to the formation of hydroxyl radicals and hydrogen peroxide which has been experimentally confirmed by Ghormley’s colorimetric method. The possibility of an additional formation of hydroxyl radicals which are able to contribute in killing bacteria due to well known Fenton reaction between hydrogen peroxide and iron (2+) cations (formed at low concentration under AC-electrolysis conditions) is discussed. In case of copper electrodes electrolytic disinfection seems to be more effective probably due to known effect of copper cations to penetrate bacteria and disrupt molecular pathways for their survival.

Electrolytic disinfection of water contaminated with E. coli by treatment with an alternating current using stainless steel and copper electrodes: Role of hydroxyl radicals and hydrogen peroxide formation

249th National Meeting (2015)

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