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Bioelectrochemical technology for recovery of silver from contaminated aqueous solution: a review

  • Green Technologies for Sustainable Water
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Abstract

A large amount of silver-rich wastewater is generated from different industrial processes. This wastewater is not considered a waste, but a valuable source for recovery due to the precious silver (Ag). Previous studies have used traditional methods such as membrane filtration, electrolysis, chemical precipitation, electrochemical, and cementation for Ag recovery. However, many drawbacks have been reported for these techniques such as high cost, hazardous waste generation, and the needed refinement of recovered products. In this study, a bioelectrochemical system (BES) for Ag recovery from aqueous solution is introduced as an effective and innovative method, as compared with other techniques. Different types of Ag(I)-containing solutions that have been investigated in recent BES studies (e.g., Ag+ solution, [Ag(NH3)2]+, [Ag(S2O3)]−, [Ag(S2O3)2]3− complexes) are reported. A BES is an anaerobic system consisting of anode and cathode chambers, which are normally separated by an ion-exchange membrane. The electron flow obtained from the anodic biological oxidation of organic matter is used directly for the cathodic electrochemical reduction of Ag(I) ions. The recovered product is Ag electrodeposits, formed at the cathode surface. Several studies have reported high Ag recovery efficiency by using a BES (i.e., > 90%), with high purity of metallic silver, and simultaneous electricity production. Furthermore, a BES can be employed for a wide range of initial Ag(I) concentrations (e.g., 50–3000 mg/L). The advantages of BES technology for Ag recovery are highlighted in this study for further practical applications.

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Acknowledgments

The authors would like to acknowledge the support from the Sirindhorn International Institute of Technology (SIIT), Thammasat University, Thailand.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Faculty of Environment and Labour Safety, Ton Duc Thang University, 19 Nguyen Huu Tho Street, Tan Phong Ward, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

    Ngo Anh Dao Ho

  2. School of Biochemical Engineering and Technology, Sirindhorn International Institute of Technology, Thammasat University, P.O. Box 22, Pathum Thani, 12121, Thailand

    Sandhya Babel

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  1. Ngo Anh Dao Ho
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  2. Sandhya Babel
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Correspondence to Sandhya Babel.

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Ho, N.A.D., Babel, S. Bioelectrochemical technology for recovery of silver from contaminated aqueous solution: a review. Environ Sci Pollut Res 28, 63480–63494 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-020-10065-y

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