Electrochemical process for water disinfection by the Fenton reaction using an iron-modified carbon paste electrode catalyst

Abstract

Natural waters are exposed to significant risks of contamination by antibiotic-resistant bacteria, posing substantial environmental and health risks. Heterogeneous Fenton-type photocatalytic processes can ensure the efficient elimination of pathogens, with advantages in terms of recycling, solid-liquid separation, and by-product avoidance. In this study, we propose an iron-modified graphite carbon electrode as a catalyst. Iron atoms are deposited by electrodeposition of Fe2+ ions onto the surface of the carbon paste electrode, resulting in a more efficient synergistic Fenton-type photocatalytic reaction that generates more hydroxyl radicals and enables effective water disinfection. Electrochemical methods were employed in this work, particularly cyclic voltammetry, square-wave voltammetry, Tafel lines, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.