In recent years, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) have been applied to remove organic compounds in wastewater. However, the carboxylic acids like oxalic acid which is potential byproduct from AOPs are resistant to hydroxyl radicals. This study used electrodeposited manganese dioxide (EMD) as an electrode to conduct the direct electro-oxidation of oxalic acid in solution. The electrochemical system adopted dimensionally stable anode (Ti/RuO2/IrO2) as anodes and cathodes in the electrolyte containing manganese sulfate (5-20 mM) and oxalic acid (initial TOC = 50ppm). Experimental parameters included current (0-6A) and initial pH (pH 1-7). The electrodeposition of manganese dioxide was characterized by scanning electron microscopy analysis and X-ray photoelectron spectra. The EMD electrodes could be further applied to oxidize other carboxylic acids including formic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, citric acid and malic acid. Accordingly, electro-oxidation of oxalic acid, citric acid and malic acid, attained TOC removal of 99%, 75% and 53% , respectively.

Electrodeposition of manganese dioxide on Ti-DSA electrode (MnO2@IrO2/Ti) for direct electro-oxidation of carboxylic acids

254th National Meeting (2017)

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