Current State of Research on the Three-Dimensional Particle Electrode System for Treating Organic Pollutants from Wastewater Streams: Particle Electrode, Degradation Mechanism, and Synergy Effects

As the demand for effective wastewater treatment continues to rise, the application of three-dimensional (3D) electrochemical particle electrodes for the removal of organic compounds from industrial wastewater has emerged as a promising solution. This approach offers significant advantages, including high treatment efficiency, operational flexibility, high current efficiency, low energy consumption, and the ability to degrade non-biodegradable organic pollutants, ultimately mineralizing them. This review provides a comprehensive and systematic exploration of the research and development of particle electrodes for use in 3D electrochemical reactors in wastewater treatment. The pivotal role of particle electrodes in removing organic contaminants from wastewater was highlighted, with most materials used as particle electrodes characterized by a specific surface area and well-defined porous structure, both of which were thoroughly discussed. Through the synergistic mechanism of adsorption, the particle electrode aids in the breakdown of organic contaminants, demonstrating the 3D particle electrode’s effectiveness in facilitating multiple oxidation mechanisms for organic wastewater treatment. Furthermore, this review categorized various particle electrode types used in 3D electrochemical wastewater treatment based on their primary components or carriers and the presence or absence of catalysts. Finally, the current status and prospects for the development and enhancement of 3D electrode particles were presented. This review offers valuable insights into the application of the 3D electrode process for environmental water treatment.