Removal of halogenated pollutants
The increasing global contamination of process water streams with low-concentration, synthetically produced organic pollutants is one of the most important environmental challenges facing mankind today and in the future. The goal of this research project is to develop an efficient, two-step water treatment process to remove and degrade these pollutants. Using perfluorinated surfactants (PFT), biocides and X-ray contrast agents as examples, a new process is to be developed and implemented in a pilot-scale demonstrator. The pollutants will first be adsorbed polarized on a porous carbon electrode made of carbon nanotubes and then electrochemically degraded on site in a second step. By separating adsorption and decomposition over time, the process can be carried out continuously when several modules are used. In close cooperation between the two research centers, optimal materials and parameters for adsorption and decomposition of various pollutants will be identified. Possible obstacles, such as the blocking of the electrodes and the toxicity of the decomposition products, are to be identified and overcome at an early stage. SMEs from various industries can use this novel process in their operational wastewater treatment plant and thus comply with required limit values. SMEs that supply components, know-how or the entire technology have the opportunity to position themselves in the emerging water treatment market.