Electrochemical Phosphorus Recovery as a Continuum: Integrating Electro-Oxidation, Electrodissolution, and Interfacial Crystallization

Electrochemical phosphorus recovery (EPR) provides a sustainable alternative to conventional chemical precipitation by generating in situ alkalinity, oxidants, and coagulating cations, thereby minimizing chemical reagent dosing. However, practical implementation remains constrained because electrochemical oxidation (EO), electrodissolution (ED), and electrochemical crystallization are predominantly investigated as separate unit processes, obscuring their synergistic mechanisms. Here, we introduce the Electrochemical Phosphorus Recovery Continuum (EPRC), an integrated mechanistic framework that combines non-orthophosphate activation, Faradaic cation dosing, and interfacial crystallization into a continuous, value-oriented recovery pathway. We systematically review the charge-transfer kinetics, electrode materials, and reactor hydrodynamic architectures governing each stage, while assessing key technical and economic barriers, including specific energy consumption, sacrificial-anode passivation, and matrix-induced competitive-ion effects. Building on this synthesis, we propose an engineering roadmap for scalable, intelligent EPR platforms that convert complex waste streams into customized agricultural fertilizers and high-value phosphate precursors, including FePO4 for potential LiFePO4 synthesis.