Flow hydrodynamic optimization
An efficient EC configuration would preferably provide a uniform flow distribution between the electrodes. To compare the flow hydrodynamic of the spiral electrocoagulation (S-EC) with the conventional EC (vertical plates), a fluid flow simulation using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) with similar dimensions and conditions was performed (see Fig 2).
As it can be seen, the uniformity and increased velocity in the spiral EC have been enhanced than the conventional EC. In the conventional EC, the vertical plate electrodes serve as a barrier against flow circulation, so then flow cannot be circulated and distributed evenly between the electrodes. This is a condition under which, fouling is anticipated to occur under the passivation of electrodes. Under such circumstances, fouling potential increases on the anode electrode and reduces the mass transfer coefficient.
