CFC/PVDF/GO-Fe 3+ membrane electrode and flow-through system improved E-Fenton performance with a low dosage of aqueous iron

•Electrochemically active cathode membrane was prepared by modifying PVDF membrane.•H2O2 was generated on cathodic CFC and production was increased in flow-through mode.•Iron catalysts were enriched in membrane zones and regenerated by membrane cathode.•Regenerated E-Fenton reaction happened in membrane zones.•CFC/PVDF/GO-Fe3+ membrane was effective and stable in degrading oxalate and RhB.