Escherichia coli inactivation using a hybrid ultrasonic–electrocoagulation reactor

• Published in: Chemosphere (Oxford) Vol. 247; p. 125868
• Main Authors: Hashim, Khalid S., Ali, Shaimaa Satae M., AlRifaie, Jawad K., Kot, Patryk, Shaw, Andy, Al Khaddar, Rafid, Idowu, Ibijoke, Gkantou, Michaela
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Elsevier Ltd 01.05.2020
• Subjects: Aluminum - chemistry; E. coli; Electrocoagulation; Electrocoagulation - methods; Electrodes; Electrolysis; Escherichia coli - growth & development; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; Microbial Viability; Models, Theoretical; Operating cost; Statistical analysis; Ultrasonic; Ultrasonic Waves; Water; Water Purification - methods; Water; Operating cost; E. coli; Electrocoagulation; Statistical analysis; Ultrasonic
• ISSN: 0045-6535; 1879-1298
• DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.125868

In the current study, a new hybrid ultrasonic-electrocoagulation reactor (U-E reactor) has been used to inactivate Escherichia coli in water. The new hybrid reactor consists of an ultrasonic bath fitted with four perforated aluminium electrodes. These perforated electrodes are designed to act as baffle-plates to enhance the water-mixing process. The electrodes eliminate the need for external mixing devices, which in turn, enhances the cost-effectiveness of the unit. Initially, the ability of the electrocoagulation to inactivate E. coli was optimised for different operating parameters such as electrolysing time (Te), electrodes spacing (ES) and current density (CD). The ultrasonic field was then applied over different time periods (Tu), during the course of the electrolysing process. Statistical analyses have been conducted to assess the relative effect of each operating parameter on the inactivation of E. coli. An economic study has also been conducted to assess the operating costs of the U-E reactor. The results revealed that the new U-E reactor inactivated 100% of the E. coli within 11 min of electrolysis at ES of 5 mm, CD of 1.5 mA/cm2, and an operation cost of 0.212 US $/m3. It was been established that the relative effect of operating parameters on E.coli inactivation followed the order: Te>Tu>CD>ES. [Display omitted] •The new hybrid U-E reactor removed 100% of E. coli within 11 min at low cost.•U-E reactor reduces the power consumption by about 56%.•Application of ultrasonic field prevents the growth of anodic passive layer.•The new design of electrodes eliminates the need for external water mixers.