Exploring critical pathways using robust strategies: Nanodiamond electrocatalysts for promoting boron removal via electrosorption

This study presents the first instance of a crucial route for the efficient removal of boron from effluents using a strategically applied electrosorption technology using nanodiamonds annealed under argon (denoted as A-NDs). We demonstrate a significant enhancement in adsorption capacity for boron removal facilitated by a flow-through electrosorption cell, and outline the results of surface characterization and electrochemical activity tests of the fabricated nanodiamond (ND) anodes (e.g., Pristine ND and A-NDs annealed at 800 and 1200 ℃). To identify the role of DO in the electrosorption system, we compared the results obtained in the natural state (without gas purging) with those obtained with ambient air and N₂ gas purging. In particular, the degree of electrode deterioration (change in the cathode carbon compositional ratio) during the charging process was characterized using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Overall, our system exhibits a favorable boron removal capability (sorption capacity reached 10.5 μmol/g) and energy consumption of <3.4 kWh g-B. Finally, we developed a prediction model for effluent properties using time-series machine learning algorithms based on various electrosorption variables (e.g., DO, pH dynamics, charging/discharging modes and times, and voltage), Through post-process of constructed ML model, voltage showed significant predictive importance. Additionally, the necessity of sequential modeling was emphasized by SHAP analysis. The application of ML algorithms provided a novel approach for the system optimization of electrified water treatment.