Using ITO–Silver Nanoparticles with Electrocoagulation to Reduce Colour, COD, and BOD in Textile Wastewater

Abstract

This study developed a material made from indium tin oxide and silver nanoparticles to improve the electrocoagulation process used for cleaning textile wastewater. The material was made through chemical reduction and examined using SEM, TEM, XRD, and BET tests. The results showed that the silver particles were evenly spread on the ITO surface with sizes between 20 and 50 nanometers. The crystal structure confirmed that both ITO and silver were successfully combined. The surface area was high, which helps reactions take place more easily. The material was then used as an electrode in an electrocoagulation system to treat real textile wastewater. The wastewater had very high levels of colour, COD, and BOD. The best results were achieved at a current density of 25 mA per square centimeter, a pH of 5, and 20 minutes of treatment. Under these conditions, the system removed 97 percent of the colour, 89 percent of COD, and 92 percent of BOD. These results were possible because the ITO and silver worked together to improve charge movement and help break down dye molecules. The study shows that this method is effective, sustainable, and suitable for large-scale use in textile wastewater treatment.