Bioelectrochemical remediation and recovery of groundwater selenium
A novel bioelectrochemical treatment prototype designed to remediate selenium-contaminated groundwater through microbial and electrochemical processes, converting selenate and selenite to elemental selenium for recovery.
Overview
The bioelectrochemical remediation system is an innovative solution for treating selenium-contaminated groundwater. Utilizing a unique combination of microbial and electrochemical processes, this system reduces dissolved selenate and selenite into elemental selenium, which can then be recovered. The core of the system is a reactor equipped with a stainless-steel mesh anode and a graphite-felt biocathode, powered by a low-voltage DC supply. This setup encourages the formation of selenium-reducing biofilms, capturing selenium particles within a permeable retainer, thus allowing for periodic retrieval and recovery of selenium.
Technical specifications
- Reactor components: Stainless-steel mesh anode and graphite-felt biocathode
- Power supply: Low-voltage DC, field-deployable
- Process: Microbial and electrochemical reduction of selenate and selenite
- Capture mechanism: Graded permeable retainer to hold Se-rich biofilms and particles
- Optimization: Cathodic/redox potential adjustments to enhance selenium reduction and minimize arsenic mobilization
Technology readiness level
The bioelectrochemical remediation system is currently at Technology Readiness Level 4. It will undergo further validation through laboratory and pilot-scale flow-through reactors. These tests will assess performance across various groundwater conditions, aiming to finalize a design ready for field trials within an 18-month timeframe.
About Rowan University
Rowan University is a comprehensive public research institution based in Glassboro with additional campuses in Camden and Stratford. Industry engagement is anchored by the South Jersey Technology Park, offering co‑located labs and incubator space that link corporate R&D with university capabilities. Integration with regional health systems through two affiliated medical schools enables large‑scale clinical collaboration and translation. Engineering’s clinic model and formal co‑op pathways give companies practical access to sponsored projects and a skilled talent pipeline. Research draws competitive federal support, including NIH and NSF, and commercialization is backed by a dedicated technology transfer office and the Rowan Innovation Venture Fund.
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