Heavy metals removal from copper smelting effluent using electrochemical filter press cells

The performance of electrochemical filter-press cells, operated in a batch recirculation mode, for the removal of heavy metals from copper smelting effluent was investigated. The effect of flow rates (26, 35, 46, 53 and 61 mL min−1) and current density (1, 2 and 3 A dm−2) on percentage removal of heavy metals and energy consumptions were studied. Significant removal of heavy metals (more than 99%) and the specific energy consumption of 15.24 kWh kg−1 have been achieved for the current density of 2 A dm−2 and the flow rate of 61 mL min−1.In the present work, the removal of arsenic by electrochemical ion exchange technique was also studied. The operating parameters of 12.5 V and a circulation rate of 10.7 mL min−1, has been observed better results in the removal of arsenate/arsenite ions from the effluent (more than 99%) with a specific energy consumption of 152.22 kWh kg−1.

► Process is developed for removal of heavy metals from copper smelting effluent.
► Electrochemical packed bed reactor reduces Cd, Cu, Zn, Ni, Fe and Pb.
► Electrochemical ion exchange removes Arsenic.
► Significant removal of heavy metals, more than 99%, is achieved.
► Overall specific energy consumption for heavy metal removal is 167.46 kWh kg−1.