Session: Applications & Implications of Nanomaterials in the Environment:

Novel nanomaterials, such as carbon nanofibers (CNFs), present a unique opportunity to advance electrochemical drinking water treatment through better performing materials. To this end, we have fabricated electrospun CNF-TiO₂ composite electrodes with high surface area, conductivity, chemical stability, and mechanical strength for use in electrochemical water treatment applications. The CNF-TiO₂ electrodes were characterized with potentiostatic electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (PEIS) to determine their electrical conductivity. To minimize their overall resistance, CNF-TiO₂ composition and post-fabrication processing (e.g., carbonization temperature) was optimized. For the optimized CNF-TiO₂ electrode, we have demonstrated the transformation of emerging organic pollutants via direct electrochemical (applied potential) and photoelectrochemical (UV/Vis radiation + applied potential) processes at circumneutral pH. Outcomes of this work will help identify the types and properties of next-generation electrode materials that are most promising for improving electrochemical water treatment systems.

David Cwiertny

Appearances