Abstract

This paper focuses on the firmness (stability) of composite graphite-epoxy adhesive (resin) electrodes developed for utilization in the electrochemical treatment (purification) of water and wastewater was investigated. Graphite resin electrodes were developed from used and discarded primary dry cells and mixed with resin mould using cool mould (non-heat treatment) processes. The microstructure of the electrode was determined using a scanning electron microscope and energy-dispersive Spectroscopy to ascertain the structure and elemental compositions of the electrode. The stability of the electrodes was measured using the standard method through chloride salt solutions. Effects of operational factors (particle size, compressive (compacting) pressure, percentage of the resin used and applied current) on the stability of the electrodes were monitored statistically using analysis of variance. Weibull probability distribution (2 and 3 parameters) was applied through Microsoft Excel Solver and Moment Likelihood Method to ascertain utilization of the electrode in environmental pollution control. The study established that the firmness of the developed electrodes had a mean of 89.79 % with a Skewness of -0.66 after 24 hours. Weibull’s constants (α, β and γ) were 9.729, 86.789, and 2.934, and (α and β) 0.751 and 89.782 for Weibull 3 and 2 parameters, respectively. It was concluded that particle size, compacting pressure and percentage of resin were significant factors that had a significant effect on the firmness of the electrodes for the treatment of water and wastewater.

Key words: stability, composite electrodes, water and wastewater, particle size, percentage resin; compacting pressure