Enhancing seawater treatment efficiency through the synergy of magnetic field, electrochemistry, and Taguchi optimization

Abstract

The challenge of finding efficient pre-treatment technologies to aid the process of desalination is especially pressing when seawater is persistently contaminated by heavy metals. In this regard, this research proposes an integrated approach that applies a combination of magnetic field application, electrochemical treatment, and Taguchi statistical optimisation to improve selective ion removal before desalination. This approach is based on a hybrid magneto-electrochemical system where electromagnetic forces are applied to disrupt ionic bonds, thereby enhancing electrochemical separation processes. Taguchi's orthogonal array design was used to determine optimum values of the functional parameters of magnetic field, electrode material and its composition, and time of treatment to evaluate their impact on removal efficiency. Implementation of this hybrid approach yields removal efficiencies of 75 %-99 %, with magnetic field strength as the primary factor influencing improvement in process efficiency. This approach is also an economically favourable and scalable approach for pre-desalination water treatment, aiding the treatment of contaminated saline water and industrial effluents.