Hydrogen peroxide production by water electrolysis: Application to disinfection

Hydrogen peroxide was produced by direct current electrolysis using only tw o electrodes, a carbon felt cathode and a RuO2 coated titanium anode. The r equired oxygen was supplied by oxidation of water and by transfer from the atmosphere or by pure oxygen injection. The current was maintained below a maximum value to avoid peroxide reduction. A high peroxide production rate was reached and a 15 mg l(-1) concentration was maintained. The electrolysi s removed turbidity and dissolved organic carbonaceous compounds from munic ipal sewage plant effluents. Real effluents were significantly disinfected owing to the direct effect of electric current and the indirect effect of p eroxide. A residual effect was also observed.