Electrocoagulation Process for Chromium Removal in Leather Tanning Effluents

Abstract

The application of chromium sulfate in tanning operations yields chromium-laden wastewater, posing significant environmental risks. This research explores electrocoagulation as a remedial measure for tannery effluents. Varied parameters—pH (4, 7, 10), electric currents (0.5, 1.0, 1.5 A), and durations (1, 2, 3 h)—were optimized to diminish chromium content. Evaluation based on initial and final chromium concentrations demonstrated 99.94% removal efficiency at pH 4, 1.5 A, over 3 hours. Achieving the 0.6 mg/L target concentration occurred at pH 4, 0.91 A, for 3 hours. This study highlighted electrocoagulation's effectiveness in chromium mitigation within tannery wastewater, showcasing its potential as an environmentally sustainable remediation.