Electrochemical oxidation of aniline at boron-doped diamond electrodes

The electrochemical oxidation of aniline at boron-doped diamond (BDD) electrodes was investigated by cyclic voltammetry, steady-state polarization measurements and bulk electrolysis under potentiostatic control. It was found that acidic media is suitable for efficient electrochemical oxidation of aniline, because at low pH, the potential required for avoiding electrode fouling is lower than in neutral and alkaline media. The results of the longtime polarization measurements suggested that more anodic potentials ensure slightly higher efficiency for the conversion of aniline to CO₂, while the direct oxidation process does not play a prominent part in the overall electrochemical incineration of aniline. The current efficiencies (44%) and the efficiency of aniline conversion to CO₂ (80%) favourably compare with those reported for other electrochemical methods for aniline destruction. The results demonstrate the possibility of using BDD as an electrode material for electrochemical wastewater treatment, mainly when very high anodic potentials are required.