Evaluating the Impact of Fe and W Electrodes on Ammonia Treatment in Ammonia-Rich Wastewater via High-Voltage Electrochemical Plasma

Abstract

This study focused on the ability to remove ammonia from wastewater using a high-voltage electrochemical plasma process under different conditions such as varied electrode distance, applied voltage, initial ammonia concentration, pH, and time. The experimental conditions were altered to examine their impact on the ammonia removal process. The results show that both types of tested electrodes can remove ammonia. However, the effectiveness of ammonia removal varied depending on the treatment conditions. In the case of using a Fe electrode, the ammonia removal process achieved relatively high efficiency; the highest efficiency achieved with the W electrode was 52.50%, whereas the Fe electrode had an efficiency of 84.13% under specific conditions. The Fe electrode demonstrated good ammonia oxidation capability while providing a suitable environment for the treatment process to occur. With the W electrode, the effectiveness of ammonia removal also was observed. Although it did not achieve the same level of removal as the Fe electrode, the W electrode still significantly reduced the ammonia concentration. However, a W electrode may require longer processing time to achieve a similar efficiency. High-voltage electrochemical plasma technology provides a highly effective wastewater treatment solution across different industries. Wastewater from the automotive, chemical, and fertilizer sectors contains high ammonia levels and poses environmental risks. This advanced method converts ammonia into nitrogen gas or other harmless compounds. Similarly, landfill leachate, a byproduct of waste decomposition, is rich in ammonia, heavy metals, and organic pollutants. Electrochemical plasma can break down toxic compounds in leachate, minimizing their environmental impact. In healthcare facilities, effluents with chemical and clinical wastes require complete treatment before discharge. Electrochemical plasma applied via metallic electrodes removes organic and inorganic contaminants, thus ensuring safer wastewater management. Additionally, this technique can be integrated into municipal water treatment plants to effectively eliminate ammonia and other pollutants, helping enhance water quality. Electrochemical plasma technology offers a versatile and efficient approach to wastewater treatment, tackling critical environmental challenges while promoting sustainable water management.