Method of electrokinetic cleaning of soil contaminated with heavy metals

Abstract

This utility model relates to environmental protection and ecological safety, specifically to devices and methods for cleaning soil contaminated with heavy metals using an electrokinetic method. The proposed electrokinetic cleaning of soil contaminated with heavy metals (Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb) uses graphite electrodes. The method is implemented using an electrokinetic cell, with graphite electrodes attached to both sides, acting as the anode and cathode, connected to a 30 V DC power source. Under the influence of an electric field, heavy metal ions migrate toward the anode and cathode through electromigration, electroosmosis, and electrophoresis. The treatment process is continuous for 12 hours, separating heavy metals from the soil matrix, concentrating them in the electrode zones, or converting them into solution. The method is applicable to various soil types, including yellow, brown, and black soils. It does not require high pressure or complex chemical reagents, and features a simple design and ease of use. The result of electrokinetic treatment is a significant reduction in the concentration of heavy metals to an environmentally safe level, minimal energy consumption, preservation of soil structure and a stable result regardless of soil type. The technical result achieved by the proposed method consists of ensuring the directed movement of heavy metal ions in the soil due to the phenomena of electromigration and electroosmosis, carrying out the treatment process in a short time, increasing the efficiency of cleaning various types of soils and maintaining the structural simplicity of the method.