Electrochemical removal of Bisphenol A from landfill leachate under Nordic climate conditions

This study investigated the applicability of electrochemical oxidation for landfill leachate treatment in climate areas, where cold temperatures prevail (like Northern Norway). Experiments were completed with pre-treated (coagulation/flocculation and separation) landfill leachate at 6 and 20 °C in order to assess the temperature influence on the degradation of the organic pollutant Bisphenol A and the fate of the ordinary wastewater parameters COD and nitrate. Furthermore, two different anode materials (Ti/Pt and Nb/BDD) and three different current densities (10, 43 and 86 mA cm −2 ) were compared. Additionally, the formation of the two groups of disinfection by-products, trihalomethanes and perchlorate, was monitored. A 99% removal of Bisphenol A was confirmed at 6 °C on both tested anode materials, but a current density of at least 43 mA cm −2 must be applied. Removal rates were on average 38% slower at 6 °C than at 20 °C. For comparison, Bisphenol A removal in clean electrolyte disclosed faster degradation rates (between 50 and 68%) due to absent landfill leachate matrix effects. The energy consumption for 99% Bisphenol A removal was 0.28 to 1.30 kWh m −3 , and was on average 14% higher at 6 °C compared to 20 °C. Trihalomethanes were mainly formed on Pt anodes in the ppb range, while perchlorate was primarily formed at BDD anodes in the ppm range. Formation of disinfection by-products increased with increased applied current and temperature. Electrochemical oxidation was found to be a suitable treatment process for landfill leachate in cold climate areas by successfully meeting treatment goals. Graphic abstract