Environmental aspects of endocrine-disrupting compounds in the aquatic ecosystem and the application of electrochemical technologies for their abatement

Emerging contaminants that can potentially impede the activity of the hormonal system of humans and other animals are referred to as endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs). Apparently, EDCs are ubiquitous in our surroundings and through industrial and domestic waste streams get discharged into receiving water bodies. Even in trace concentrations, these EDCs can cause impairment of the reproductive system, weaken immunity and cause child developmental disorders. The extent of EDCs pollution can be gauged by their identification at an alarming rate in rivers, coastal regions, and even subsurface aquifers. The evident fiasco of conventional treat-ment in suppressing pollution of EDC has provoked the development of electrochemical techniques, such as electrochemical oxidation, electrocoagulation, electro-Fenton process, and other electrochemical technologies (ETs). These neoteric technologies are conveniently operated with minimal dependency on external chemicals, manageable sludge generation, and display superior degradation kinetics. Therefore, ETs are appropriate for mineralising pollutants of stubborn and recalcitrant nature. Though effective, the techno-economic assessment has revealed that ET-driven wastewater treatment is expensive compared to traditional biological processes. Additionally, the life cycle analysis of these electrochemical devices has anticipated adverse environmental ef-fects. The operation of ET is taxing mainly due to the cost of electrode material and power required for driving the electrochemical reactor. Thus, this review aims to provide a comprehensive perspective on the usability and viability of ETs for removing EDCs from polluted water and plausible strategies to bring the treatment cost to competitive levels.

Automated summary

Endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs) are emerging contaminants that can hinder the hormonal system of humans and animals. They are widespread in our surroundings and are discharged into water bodies through industrial and domestic waste streams. Even in trace concentrations, EDCs can cause reproductive system impairment, weakened immunity, and developmental disorders in children. The detection of EDCs in rivers, coastal regions, and subsurface aquifers indicates the extent of pollution. Conventional treatment methods have failed to suppress EDC pollution, leading to the development of electrochemical techniques (ETs) that offer efficient degradation of EDCs with minimal reliance on external chemicals.