Chromium exists in the environment in two main oxidation states: trivalent and hexavalent. Hexavalent chromium is mostly formed through industrial processes due to its use as pigment in dyes or as an oxidant. Unfortunately, due to poor industrial waste management and chromium’s mobility, it can seep into ground water systems. Consumption of Cr(VI) contaminated drinking water is hazardous for human health. Due to the health complications associated with Cr(VI), there is a need for an efficient method to reduce hexavalent chromium in water. The reduction of Cr(VI) is kinetically challenging and therefore the general approach to this work is to electrochemically reduce Cr(VI) to Cr(III) through proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) reactions. Weak acids, such as citric acid, are used to control the pH and provide protons needed in the reduction process while other small molecules are used as electron mediators.  By controlling PCET reactions for the reduction of Cr(VI), energy efficient and environmentally conscious water purification methods can be further developed.

Electrochemical reduction of chromate in buffered acid solutions for water purification

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.