PL EN
Optimizing chemical oxygen demand and total nitrogen removal from tofu wastewater using a multi-rod helical electrocoagulation system in a tubular reactor
 
More details
Hide details
1
Institut Teknologi PLN, Department of Environmental Engineering, Jakarta, 11750, Indonesia
 
 
Corresponding author
Rachmad Ardhianto   

Institut Teknologi PLN, Department of Environmental Engineering, Jakarta, 11750, Indonesia
 
 
J. Ecol. Eng. 2025; 26(6):95-109
 
KEYWORDS
TOPICS
ABSTRACT
Tofu production generates significant volumes of wastewater, which are primarily managed by micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) that lack adequate treatment infrastructure. As characterised by high COD (3,175 mg/L) and nitrogen levels (13.56 mg/L), tofu wastewater poses severe environmental risks to aquatic ecosystems. Traditional and advanced treatment methods are often ineffective or financially unfeasible for MSMEs. This study investigates a novel MRHS EC reactor for the continuous-flow treatment of tofu wastewater with a focus on COD and TN removal. The MRHS reactor uses a helical electrode configuration to enhance mixing, coagulant dispersion, and pollutant removal efficiency. Under optimal conditions, the MRHS reactor achieved an average of COD removal of 50-76.9% and TN removal of 58-72%, with energy consumption 2.69 – 10.6 kWh/m³ for TN removal, 1.96 – 8.35 kWh/m³ COD Removal using aluminium and iron anodes. The system demonstrated superior performance compared to conventional batch EC setups, particularly in terms of scalability and operational efficiency. Key parameters such as current density, electrode material, and pH were systematically optimised to maximise pollutant removal while minimising energy use. The findings highlight the potential of MRHS EC systems as scalable, energy-efficient, and cost-effective solutions for MSMEs. Beyond its academic contribution, this research offers practical implications for sustainable wastewater management in tofu production and other industries producing high-organic-content effluents. By addressing the pressing need for regulatory compliance and reducing environmental impact, the MRHS EC reactor represents a transformative approach to wastewater treatment for small-scale enterprises.
Journals System - logo
Scroll to top