Hybrid graphene-decorated metal hollow fibre membrane reactors for efficient electro-Fenton - Filtration co-processes

Metal hollow fibre membranes offer excellent chemical and mechanical stability and are promising platforms for the removal of harsh contaminants from solutions. Stainless steel (SS) membranes are however prone to oxidation and advanced decoration routes are required to passivate the surface of such materials. Here, SS membranes were modified with nanoscale coatings of graphene to promote electrochemical reactions and prevent premature corrosion of the bare metal reinforcement upon electro-Fenton (EF) reaction. Samples decorated with graphene oxide or reduced graphene oxide were compared to bare SS membranes to assess the impact of graphitization on the electrochemical performance of the membranes. Membranes properties were characterized using both cyclic and linear scanning voltammetry. The results evidenced that electron transfer kinetics were significantly enhanced on the reduced graphene oxide, compared to raw material. In addition, the removal efficiency of a pharmaceutical pollutant, paracetamol, was evaluated in electro-Fenton batch experiments, on the three membrane electrodes. The best mineralization current efficiency at 37% was found when using reduced graphene oxide membrane cathode at optimal applied potential of −0.5 V vs. SCE (Saturated Calomel Electrode). Finally, the coupling of electro-Fenton and filtration processes was carried out on a pilot-scale unit. Various electrochemical and hydrodynamic parameters that affect mineralization efficiency were studied. By coupling filtration and electrochemical processes, the mineralization current efficiency value was increased remarkably by 165% and remained stable for three consecutive cycles. This strategy opens up opportunities to generate low cost catalytic membrane reactors with high flux and selectivity from the materials reactivity as opposed to sieving, with potential for harsh chemicals mineralization.