PV-​powered electrochemical wastewater treatment system: Kinetics and mechanisms

Abstract

We have developed a transportable prototype designed for the treatment of raw domestic wastewater, human urine, human feces, and synthetic human waste analogs. After several hours of PV-powered electrochem. treatment, the turbid, black-water influent can be clarified with the elimination of the suspended particles along with the redn. or total elimination of the COD (COD), total enteric coliform disinfection via in situ reactive chlorine species generation, and the elimination of measurable protein after 3 to 4 h of PV-powered treatment. Our advanced prototype incorporates addnl. features such as a residual sludge handling unit, a hydrogen purifn. and filter system, and a closed-loop water reuse system for flushing water. We have packaged our second-generation prototypes into modified shipping containers are ready for field-testing in remote locations that lack traditional urban infrastructure. Extensive field-testing in India began in Apr. 2014.