Electrochemistry for environmental applications: water disinfection, pharmaceutical analysis, and CO2 reduction

• Main Author: Tonanon, Panyawut
• Other Authors: Richard D. Webster
• Format: Thesis-Doctor of Philosophy
• Language: English
• Published: Nanyang Technological University 2025
• Subjects: Chemistry
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/10356/182358
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

This thesis explores novel applications of analytical electrochemistry in addressing environmental challenges and advancing pharmaceutical analysis, focusing on three main areas: water disinfection, pharmaceutical compound detection, and carbon dioxide capture and utilization. In the first study, platinized titanium electrodes were investigated for their efficacy in inactivating Escherichia coli in water through electrochemical processes. The research elucidated the mechanisms underlying the disinfection process, particularly the generation and role of reactive oxygen species, demonstrating feasible rapid disinfection even at low electrolyte concentrations. The second study developed and optimized methods for detecting and quantifying praziquantel, an important antiparasitic drug, in water samples. Two techniques were compared: gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and voltammetry, both utilizing solid phase extraction for sample preparation. While GC-MS showed lower detection limits, the voltametric method demonstrated comparable accuracy and precision, offering a potentially more cost-effective and portable alternative for on-site testing. The final study explored the electrochemistry of organic molecules, specifically quinones and flavins (vitamin B2), for potential applications in carbon dioxide capture and energy storage. The research investigated the molecular interactions between reduced organic species and CO2, as well as their electrochemical behavior under various conditions, providing insights into the development of novel carbon capture technologies and organic-based energy storage systems. Throughout these investigations, the thesis demonstrates the versatility and power of analytical electrochemistry in addressing diverse challenges in environmental remediation, pharmaceutical analysis, and sustainable energy technologies. The research contributes to the advancement of electrochemical methods and their practical applications in these critical areas.