Characterization of a new cartridge type electrocoagulation reactor (CTECR) using a three-dimensional steel wool anode

In this work a new electrocoagulation reactor with cylindrical geometry using a three-dimensional steel wool anode has been developed. The architecture of the Electrocoagulation reactor is closely related to a filter cartridge, modified in order to contain the electrodes. The complete system includes the Cartridge Type ElectroCoagulation Reactor (CTECR) and its housing. The residence time distribution (RTD) was used as tool to study the flow behavior of the electrolyte within the reactor. The new reactor has been successfully used in the removal of a textile dye (Remazol Red RB 133) working in continuous mode of operation, where the color elimination rate reaches 99%. Moreover, its design allows both an easy replacement of the cartridge when the steel wool anode is consumed, and the collection and storage of the hydrogen generated on the cathode.