Metal Ions Removal from Aqueous Media Using an Electrokinetic Cell
Authors: Abdel-Fattah Tarek M 
Published: February 2024

Electro-kinetic (EK) remediation is a technique used for the treatment of contaminated soil and groundwater [1-2]. It involves the application of a low voltage-electrical current through the soil, which causes the movement of charged contaminants towards electrodes, where they can be extracted or immobilized. In EK remediation, electrodes are placed in the soil or contaminated water and connected to a power supply. In case of soil, soil need to be wetted with an electrolyte solution to facilitate the movement of charged particles. When a low voltage-electrical current is applied, it creates an electric field that drives the migration of charged contaminants, such as heavy metals ions and or charged organic pollutants, towards the opposite charge electrodes. The anode is typically made of a reactive metal, such as iron, while the cathode can be made of stainless steel or graphite. The electrodes are connected to a power supply that applies a low-voltage electrical current to the system. The contaminants can then be collected or treated using various methods, such as adsorption, precipitation, or electrochemical reactions [3-10]. EK remediation has several advantages over traditional remediation methods, such as in situ chemical oxidation and pump-and-treat systems. It can be applied to a wide range of contaminants and soil types, and is generally more effective at removing contaminants that are difficult to treat using other methods. Additionally, EK remediation can be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option for the treatment of contaminated sites. This study explores the removal of cobalt (II) ions from aqueous solution combining the use of adsorbents such as zeolite placed in an electrokinetic cell. The most effective removing is almost 93% of cobalt (II) ions from aqueous solution after 300 minutes at 15 V in the presence of Faujasite type zeolites. Therefore, EK remediation technique has shown promise as an innovative approach to environmental remediation.

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