Sustainability in ElectroKinetic Remediation Processes: A Critical Analysis

Marco Vocciante, Vincenzo G. Dovì and Sergio Ferro
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Marco Vocciante: Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Genova, 16146 Genova, Italy
Vincenzo G. Dovì: Interuniversity Research Centre High Tech Recycling, Genoa Branch, headquartered at the University of Roma La Sapienza, 00185 Roma, Italy
Sergio Ferro: Ecas4 Australia Pty Ltd., Mile End South, SA 5031, Australia

Sustainability, 2021, vol. 13, issue 2, 1-15

Abstract: In recent years, the development of suitable technologies for the remediation of environmental contaminations has attracted considerable attention. Among these, electrochemical approaches have gained prominence thanks to the many possible applications and their proven effectiveness. This is particularly evident in the case of inorganic/ionic contaminants, which are not subject to natural attenuation (biological degradation) and are difficult to treat adequately with conventional methods. The purpose of this contribution is to present a critical overview of electrokinetic remediation with particular attention on the sustainability of the various applications. The basis of technology will be briefly mentioned, together with the phenomena that occur in the soil and how that will allow its effectiveness. The main critical issues related to this approach will then be presented, highlighting the problems in terms of sustainability, and discussing some possible solutions to reduce the environmental impact and increase the cost-effectiveness and sustainability of this promising technology.

Keywords: electrokinetic approach; sub-surface contamination; heavy metals; EKRT; renewable energies; electrochemical technologies; wastewater treatment; soil remediation; photovoltaic; wind (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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