Most current methods of water and wastewater treatment systems involve purchasing and transporting chemicals to centralized treatment facilities, which entails the emission of greenhouse gases.  Interest in decentralized treatment systems is growing, partly because pumping water to and from treatment facilities constitutes a significant fraction of the overall energy used within the water cycle.  Electrochemical treatment systems are particularly attractive for decentralized systems, since they reduce the need to transport reagents, are modular in nature, and can be operated remotely.  However, while electrochemical treatment technologies are a potentially powerful tool for advancing decentralized treatment, there are three main limitations that inhibit scale-up: (1) a focus on oxidative (anodic) systems, (2) use of costly electrode materials, and (3) inefficiencies due to targeting microconstituents (< mg/L).

This seminar will propose a paradigm shift that addresses these three challenges and enhances process efficiency.  In this work, I aim to transform current electrochemical methods by: (1) developing cathodic, reductive systems instead of anodic, oxidative systems, (2) using low-cost, commercially available electrode materials, and (3) targeting macroconstituents (> mg/L), which outcompete microconstituents for reactions.  This seminar will cover three environmental applications for reductive electrochemical treatment systems, including: potable reuse, wastewater discharge, and a potent greenhouse gas used for agricultural fumigation.  Using real water or matrix conditions, I assess energy requirements and develop initial cost estimates against currently used technologies to assess the feasibility and future research priorities of the electrochemical process.  These proof-of-concept electrochemical treatment technologies advance the field towards more efficient systems that are practical for real-world implementation.