Solubilization of Phosphate Rock via Dielectric Barrier Discharge in the Aqueous Phase

ABSTRACT This study presents a sustainable approach for phosphate (PO 4 3 ⁻) solubilization from phosphate rock (PR) using a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma system. Reactive oxygen‐nitrogen species (RONS) were generated, and their effects on PR dissolution were investigated under varied voltages, currents, and air flow rates in the aqueous phase. Higher flow rates favored the acidulation pathway, while higher current‐density promoted the oxidation pathway; both contributed to solubilization. Optimal conditions (13 kV, 0.8 A, 5 L min⁻¹) yielded 85% dissolution, with 315 mg L⁻¹ NO 3 ⁻ and 44.5 mg L⁻¹ PO 4 3 ⁻. The quadratic model accurately predicted results (recovery > 90%). Compared with HNO₃‐only control (78% efficiency, 32.5 mg L⁻¹ PO 4 3 ⁻), DBD treatment achieved superior solubilization, offering an environmentally friendly perspective for PR solubilization.