Production and Transformation of Mixed-Valent Nanoparticles Generated by Fe(0) Electrocoagulation

Date Published
01/2015
Publication Type
Journal Article
Authors
DOI
10.1021/es505059d
Abstract

Mixed-valent iron nanoparticles (NP) generated electrochemically by Fe(0) electrocoagulation (EC) show promise for on-demand industrial and drinking water treatment in engineered systems. This work applies multiple characterization techniques (in situ Raman spectroscopy, XRD, SEM, and cryo-TEM) to investigate the formation and persistence of magnetite and green rust (GR) NP phases produced via the Fe(0) EC process. Current density and background electrolyte composition were examined in a controlled anaerobic system to determine the initial Fe phases generated as well as transformation products with aging. Fe phases were characterized in an aerobic EC system with both simple model electrolytes and real groundwater to investigate the formation and aging of Fe phases produced in a system representing treatment of arsenic-contaminated ground waters in South Asia. Two central pathways for magnetite production via Fe(0) EC were identified: (i) as a primary product (formation within seconds when DO absent, no intermediates detected) and (ii) as a transformation product of GR (from minutes to days depending on pH, electrolyte composition, and aging conditions). This study provides a better understanding of the formation conditions of magnetite, GR, and ferric (oxyhydr)oxides in Fe EC, which is essential for process optimization for varying source waters.

Journal
Environmental Science & Technology
Volume
49
Year of Publication
2015
Issue
4
Pagination
2171 - 2179
ISSN Number
0013-936X
Short Title
Environ. Sci. Technol.
Refereed Designation
Refereed
Download citation