Electrochemical oxidation of triclosan on ceramic-carbon electrode: pH effect and mechanistic insights

Triclosan (TCS), a commonly used antimicrobial agent, raises environmental concerns due to its persistence and potential to form harmful byproducts. This study examines the electrochemical oxidation of TCS on a novel ceramic-carbon anode, exploring its degradation mechanisms in acidic, neutral, and alkaline environments through cyclic voltammetry, spectroscopic analysis, and ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled to a mass spectrometer equipped with a time-of-flight and quadrupole analysers (UHPLC-MS(QTOF)) and GC-MS techniques. Results indicate that TCS remains electrochemically inert in neutral conditions but undergoes oxidation in alkaline environments, leading to the formation of toxic dioxins through nucleophilic attack. In acidic environments, complete degradation into simpler, non-toxic compounds occurs. This study highlights the effect of pH on TCS degradation pathways and demonstrates the potential of electrochemical methods for water treatment, underscoring the importance of acidic conditions for the safe and effective removal of TCS. • Triclosan degradation on a novel ceramic-carbon electrode is pH-dependent. • Alkaline conditions produce dioxins; acidic conditions yield non-toxic byproducts. • Electrochemical methods show promise for safe triclosan removal in water treatment.