DIRECT ELECTROCHEMICAL OXIDATION OF ORGANICS FOR WASTE-WATER TREATMENT

A single cell electrochemical reactor that utilizes a proton exchange membrane (PEM) as a solid electrolyte was investigated for the treatment of waters with low or negligible electrolyte content. The electrochemical reactor concept, test system design, the role of the proton exchange membrane and the principle of organic impurity oxidation at PEM/electrocatalyst interfacial reaction zones are outlined. Test data and kinetic analysis are presented. The feasibility and application for water reclamation processes in controlled ecological environments (e.g. lunar/Mars habitats) are discussed. The approach has potential as a terrestrial water pollution control method.