Electrified in-situ selenium remediation
A bioelectrochemical reduction-oxidation permeable barrier system that reduces selenate to elemental selenium while preventing arsenic remobilization. This system uses electricity, powered by solar panels, and operates in-situ without chemicals, ideal for remote location deployment.
Overview
The electrified in-situ selenium remediation system is an innovative approach to address selenium contamination in groundwater. This bioelectrochemical reduction-oxidation permeable barrier utilizes electricity to spatially and temporally separate reduction and oxidation reactions. It transforms selenate into elemental selenium while preventing the release of toxic arsenic compounds. This system, powered by solar panels, operates in-situ, making it highly suitable for remote locations without the need for chemical inputs.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Bioelectrochemical process: Utilizes electrode-driven microbial processes to reduce selenate to elemental selenium.
- Dual-zone design: A reductive zone transforms selenate to selenium while an oxidative zone re-oxidizes arsenite back to arsenate, preventing arsenic release.
- Scalability: Currently validated at lab-scale with plans for a pilot-scale reactor to confirm feasibility.
- Energy-efficient: Operates under a moderate voltage, with potential solar panel integration for off-grid locations.
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at TRL 4, having been validated through continuous lab testing yielding up to 99% elemental selenium. Future work includes lab-scale microcosm studies and pilot-scale scalability tests to advance its readiness for field deployment.
About University of Alabama
The University of Alabama is a large, comprehensive public research university in Tuscaloosa with a broad research portfolio and a strong pipeline of undergraduate and graduate talent. Industry engages through a centralized corporate partnership office that streamlines sponsored research and standard agreements. On‑campus prototyping and materials characterization facilities, shared cores, and project spaces support collaboration; a well‑established co‑op and internship program connects companies with students year‑round. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NSF, DOE, DoD, and NIH. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, and startup support, and coordinates with regional economic development partners near the state’s automotive manufacturing corridor.
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