Novel Water Treatment Technology Achieves 99.9 per cent Antibiotics Removal Rate

Emerging and persistent organic contaminants, such as antibiotics, poses threat to water and wastewater systems. Conventional water treatment systems are not adept to combat these contaminants which often originate from industrial discharge, pharmaceutical and agricultural waste, and more. Traditional methods often struggle due to the complex molecular structures and stability of these pollutants, leading to their persistence in the environment and potential harm to human health and ecosystems. The difficulty in breaking down these contaminants efficiently and cost-effectively has been a long-standing issue.

To combat this, a recent innovation has emerged: a bifunctional electrochemical reactor designed to tackle the challenges posed by these emerging and persistent organic contaminants. This hybrid reactor combines two Electrochemical Advanced Oxidation Processes (EAOPs) to enhance radical generation and contaminant degradation. This innovative approach has achieved remarkable success, demonstrating 99.9 per cent removal of antibiotics from water, a feat that significantly outperforms traditional EAOPs and paves the way for safer, cleaner water systems.

The technology was conceptualised and developed by Professor Ramya Srinivasan—now a faculty member at the School of Engineering and Applied Science​​​​​​, Ahmedabad University—during her PhD research at IIT Madras, in collaboration with fellow researchers. The patent for this innovation was granted after she joined Ahmedabad University, where she continues to advance her work in sustainable water treatment technologies.

This invention features a photocatalyst-coated carbon anode and an organometal-functionalised graphene cathode, inventively wrapped around individual rotary drums. This unique design ensures partial submergence of the electrodes in the wastewater, allowing the feed entering the reactor device to form a liquid thin film on the electrode surfaces. This configuration facilitates the sustainable removal of dual-phase contaminants, addressing a key challenge in water treatment.

Beyond its antibiotic removal capabilities, this system offers additional merits. Notably, it operates effectively without any external aeration and performs comfortably across a wide pH range, making it adaptable to various water conditions. The enhanced contaminant degradation efficiencies can be attributed to improved overall mass transfer, a faster electron transfer rate, and the higher generation of reactive oxygen species, all made possible by the innovative electrode material composites.

This invention provides a sustainable and effective solution to the pressing problem of persistent organic pollutant abatement in water and wastewater. Furthermore, it also contributes to the removal of contaminants in the air phase to some extent, showcasing its versatility. Its cost-effectiveness, energy efficiency, and plug-and-play design make it a practical solution for both domestic and industrial applications. This technology shows promise for revolutionising water treatment and ensuring access to clean and safe water for all.