Solar power‐driven,
IoT
‐based system for electrochemical degradation of industrial dye using a pair of carbon electrode assemblies
Nitesh Kumar, Devinder Madhwal, Vivek Kumar, VK Jain, Uttam Gupta Abstract
BACKGROUND
Textile industries discharge synthetic dyes into water bodies that resist conventional treatment, causing serious environmental and health hazards. Electrochemical advanced oxidation using carbon electrodes (graphite) offers an effective alternative by generating hydroxyl radicals that break down recalcitrant dye molecules. Despite its potential, most systems lack real‐world automation and renewable energy integration needed for practical deployment. This study shows that integrating readily available sensors and renewable energy could translate into industrial settings.
RESULTS
The solar‐powered electrochemical system achieved progressive dye degradation, confirmed by real‐time sensor monitoring. The carbon electrode assembly remained stable throughout treatment, while the Internet of Things (IoT)‐enabled microcontroller continuously logged concentration and electrical parameters, transmitting live data to a mobile interface. Dye concentration from 5 to 100 ppm was easily degraded up to ca 99% in 10–180 min with electrical power consumption ranging from 0.5 to 5 kWh m −3 . Automated feedback between sensors and power regulation reduced energy consumption during low dye‐load periods, improving overall treatment efficiency.
CONCLUSION
This study presents a functional, IoT‐controlled electrochemical system using carbon electrodes for treatment of industrial dye‐containing wastewater. By integrating solar power, real‐time sensing, and remote automation, the system offers a scalable and sustainable solution for dye‐intensive industries such as textiles and leather processing. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).