Clean and green: the multifaceted solution of the electrocoagulation technology in emerging contaminants in wastewater

Abstract Emerging contaminants (ECs), such as pharmaceuticals and pesticides, pose a threat to water resources due to their ecological and health impacts, even at low concentrations. Conventional wastewater treatment struggles with these persistent compounds. This review comprehensively examined electrocoagulation (EC) as a multifaceted and sustainable solution for EC removal. We introduced the challenges of ECs and the limitations of traditional methods before detailing the principles and advantages of EC: high efficiency across diverse ECs, operational ease, and reduced chemical use. Comparative analysis highlights EC's superior performance, broader applicability, lower costs, and less sludge, aligning with sustainable wastewater management. The review further explored the environmental benefits of EC (reduced chemicals and sludge), renewable energy integration potential, and favorable LCA/TEA findings. We elucidated combined removal mechanisms (coagulation, adsorption, oxidation) and the crucial role of operational parameters, supported by case studies of EC technology. Finally, we addressed challenges of EC (electrode maintenance, scalability) and ongoing research (electrode development, automation), concluding with emerging trends and EC's potential as a mainstream technology for clean, sustainable wastewater treatment.