Performance of laboratory-scale constructed wetlands coupled with micro-electric field for heavy metal-contaminating wastewater treatment

This study reports the performance of laboratory-scale constructed wetlands coupled with micro-electric field (CWMEF) planted cannas (Canna generalis) for heavy metal-contaminating wastewater treatment. The CWMEF had a better performance for heavy metal (HM) removal from wastewater than did the ordinary constructed wetlands (CWs). Owing to the stimulation of the suitable voltage and electrical exposure time, cannas may grew better and in fact assimilated more metallic ions in CWMEF than in CWs. The environmental conditions in CWMEF, such as the higher pH by electrolysis of water, the presence of aluminum ions by anodizing of aluminum, caused chemical precipitation, physical adsorption and flocculation of metallic ions.