Electro-reversible adsorption as a versatile tool for the removal of diclofenac from wastewater

In this study, adsorption of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug such as Diclofenac (DCF) on commercial carbonaceous aerogel honeycomb monolith (NANOLIT®-NQ40) was ascertained. Based on, the overall design an treatment should include feasible regeneration process for spent adsorbent. work, adsorption/desorption ameliorated by coupling electrochemical technology (anodic/cathodic polarisation). It determined that anodic polarisation enhanced DCF removal and it related with applied voltage disposition electrodes into bulk solution. Anodic at optimal conditions (voltage 0.9 V, gap 2.5 cm electrolyte concentration higher than 1 mM) provoked enhancement (around 30%) in rate. The method adsorbed or electro-adsorbed investigated cathodic proved to be viable alternative attaining total aerogel. electro-desorption mechanism seemed linked generation repulsive intermolecular forces surface. Finally, sequential electro-adsorption/electro-desorption performed successive cycles. results confirmed feasibility strategy, maintaining efficiency no structural changes after several cycles being electro-reversible pollutants promising pharmaceuticals from wastewater. • Removal monolith. Amelioration anodic/cathodic polarisation. Optimization electro-adsorption process: electrode gap, electrolyte, voltage. Successful electro-adsorption/desorption regeneration.