Mercury Decontamination of Aqueous Solutions via Electrochemical Alloy Formation

Doktorsavhandling, 2025

Mercury is a toxic heavy metal that affects every corner of our planet, posing serious threats to both human health and the environment. While mercury occurs naturally, human activities such as coal burning and mining have drastically increased its pollution in the air, water, and soil. Once released into the environment, mercury does not simply disappear; rather, it persists and remains mobile for thousands of years, making its pollution a long-term challenge for both current and future generations.

Mercury is particularly dangerous in water, where it travels vast distances, poisoning ecosystems and affecting all living beings, including humans. Unfortunately, many existing methods for removing mercury from water solutions are not efficient enough to address the problem effectively. This research explores a promising new electrochemical method for mercury removal from water solutions. By introducing another metal into the solution and using electrochemistry, an amalgam forms with mercury, facilitating its removal.

To develop this method, its fundamental mechanisms are first studied by investigating how mercury in solution interacts with a platinum metal. Once an amalgam forms between mercury and platinum, the platinum is regenerated for reuse in further mercury removal. The method’s potential for real-world applications is also assessed, demonstrating successful mercury removal from wastewater produced by dental clinics in Sweden. In addition, mercury was removed from concentrated sulfuric acid produced in the mining industry. While there is still much to learn and improve, this research aims to establish a strong foundation for further development of the method and to contribute to global mercury mitigation efforts.