Electrolytic Treatment to Remove Apparent Color in Landfill Leachate

Introduction: The aim of this paper was to study the viability of to use the electrocoagulation in the treatment of landfill leachate to remove apparent color. The bench tests were performed using aluminum electrodes arranged as monopolar in parallel. The electric current, current density and electrical voltage were respectively set at 4, 5; 300A/m² and 3, 2V. To determinate the influence of monitoring time and ph on the treatment electrolytic efficiency was evaluated the the apparent color, electrical conductivity and turbity parametres. For this research step the results showed a better apparent color removal efficiency at ph = 5 (92. 5%). From this choice, the ph 5 sample was analyzed for the concentration of ammoniacal nitrogen, total coliforms and COD. The leachate remotion was 58. 75% of COD, 47. 24% of total coliforms and no remotion in ammoniacal nitrogen. The treatment cost, considering the consumption of electric energy and aluminum electrodes, was estimated at US 3, 00/m³ of treated leachate. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of landfill leachate treatment using electrocoagulation technology. Theoretical Framework: This section presents the main concepts and theories underlying the research. Highlights include the diagnosis of urban solid waste generation and disposal in Brazil. The theoretical framework also addresses leachate treatment technologies and landfills, as well as studies using electroflocculation as a potential wastewater treatment technology. Method: The methodology adopted for this research involves bench tests using aluminum electrodes arranged in a parallel monopolar arrangement. To evaluate the leachate treatment from the São Leopoldo/RS landfill, the influence of monitoring time and pH on the efficiency of the electrolytic treatment was assessed, considering the decreases in apparent color, turbidity, total coliform, COD, and ammonia nitrogen. Results and Discussion: The best leachate treatment efficiencies were obtained at pH = 5. The reductions obtained were 92. 5%, 58. 75%, and 47. 24% for apparent color, COD, and total coliforms, respectively. The treatment cost was estimated at US3. 00/m³ of treated leachate. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research are discussed, providing a practical basis for the use of electroflocculation technology for leachate treatment in landfills. This is a little-used treatment alternative for effluents, with advantages related to reduced chemical use and good efficiency. Originality/Value: The relevance and value of this research are briefly related to: the difficulty of treating landfill leachate, which is reflected in one of the highest operational costs of this operation, and the potential for using an underexplored technology in effluent treatment.