Scientists at Washington University in St. Louis have achieved a significant breakthrough in water purification.
They've developed a rapid and effective method for removing selenium from water using iron electrocoagulation. This innovation could revolutionize how industrial and agricultural sites manage water discharge, helping them meet stringent environmental regulations.
Selenium, while essential in trace amounts, becomes a hazard at high concentrations. The team's approach uses electric current to corrode iron electrodes, creating reactive particles that bind to selenium. Tests showed over 98% selenium removal in just 11 seconds, with the remaining solids deemed non-hazardous.
Graduate students Xicheng He and Yihang Yuan led studies, supported by the US Department of Energy. Their research optimized the process under various conditions, creating a predictive model for diverse environments. The team plans to expand the technology to tackle other contaminants, broadening its application in water treatment.