Research Progress on Anode-Enhanced Electro-Fenton for the Degradation of Organic Pollutants

Abstract

Organic pollutants in water bodies such as domestic sewage, agricultural runoff, and industrial wastewater present significant challenges to environmental protection due to their persistence, toxicity, and potential for bioaccumulation. The electro-Fenton (EF) technology has emerged as one of the most effective methods for the degradation of organic pollutants. This review aims to provide an updated understanding of anode-enhanced electro-Fenton in the degradation of organic pollutants. We outline the core principles and mechanisms of the electro-Fenton process, followed by a detailed discussion of the factors influencing its performance, including electrode materials, current density, Fe²⁺ concentration, and pH conditions. Furthermore, we systematically explore various strategies involving anode materials for efficient pollutant removal under different operational conditions. The review also examines the mechanisms of the anode-enhanced electro-Fenton process, explaining how organic pollutants are broken down into non-toxic or low-toxicity products. Finally, we identify the future challenges and prospects in the development and application of this advanced oxidation process, emphasizing its potential in large-scale industrial applications.