Electrochemical degradation mechanism of trichloroethylene in glass bead model soil

Abstract

In situ electrochemical degradation of trichloroethylene (TCE) is one of the promising options for low-cost remediation of TCE. However, actual TCE degradation has not yet been established in our study because of the compound’s volatility and adsorption onto soil surfaces. In this study, degradation of TCE in a model soil by an electrochemical process was confirmed by GC-ECD, TOC, IC, GC-MS, and ion chromatography analyses. The electrochemical degradation was performed in a model soil consisting of glass beads and aqueous solution, and the residual TCE and degradation products were determined. Complete decomposition of TCE to CO₂ and chloride ion was achieved by application of a 10 V d.c. voltage.