Three-dimensional electro-catalytic ozonation for efficient treatment of real urine wastewater: Synergistic effects and mechanism investigation

Urine wastewater comprises a diverse array of intricate organic contaminants, which pose significant challenges for traditional treatment technologies. This study developed a three-dimensional electrochemical ozone catalytic (3D-ECO) system employing granular activated carbon as the particulate electrode. This novel system combines electrochemical oxidation, ozone oxidation, and adsorption, leading to a substantial enhancement in pollutant degradation. The 3D-ECO achieved an 84 ​% COD removal rate and complete color removal within 50 ​min. In comparison to traditional systems, 3D-ECO exhibited rapid ozone decomposition and efficient generation of hydroxyl radicals (•OH), accompanied by a markedly elevated R ct value. GAC plays multiple critical roles, including the adsorption of pollutants, the catalytic decomposition of ozone, and the generation of highly reactive hydroxyl radicals (•OH). These processes collectively enhance the degradation of contaminants. These findings underscore the potential of 3D-ECO as a powerful and scalable solution for the advanced oxidation treatment of complex wastewater, addressing emerging contaminants in such effluents. A 3D-ECO system using granular activated carbon (GAC) as the electrode significantly enhances organic pollutant degradation in urine wastewater. GAC promotes ozone decomposition and hydroxyl radical generation, improving pollutant removal and providing new insights for sustainable wastewater treatment. • Development of novel three-dimensional electro-catalytic ozonation system integrating GAC as particle electrode. • Demonstration of significant synergistic effects between GAC and electro-catalytic ozonation in urine treatment. • Elucidation of enhanced oxidation mechanisms through ozone activation and radical generation pathways.