Decomposition of refractory organics in wastewater by electrocatalytic reduction: mechanism, challenges, and future perspectives

This review provides a brief overview of the electrocatalytic reduction of refractory organic contaminants in water. The electrocatalytic reduction mechanism and principle are thoroughly discussed. The role of various oxidants such as ozone, persulfate, permanganate, peracetic acid, and mixed oxidants on the electrocatalytic reduction of refractory organic contaminants was deeply explored. The impact of various operational parameters such as current density, initial concentration of oxidants, solution pH, and water matrices on the electrocatalytic degradation of refractory organic compounds has been investigated in detail. Moreover, the role of electrode materials and electrocatalytic reactor design in the electrocatalytic reduction of refractory organic contaminants in water was also discussed. Finally, the challenges and future perspectives were highlighted for the practical implementation of electrocatalytic reduction processes for water treatment.