On the stability of perchlorate ions against reductive attacks in electrochemical systems and in the environment

The problems related to the electrochemical/electrocatalytic stability of perchlorate ions are reviewed in the light of recent experimental results. The electrocatalytic, catalytic, and electrochemical reduction processes are presented and the links between them are outlined. Some possible mechanisms of the complicated reduction processes are discussed. Various methods for the detection of reduction process are presented, e.g. voltammetry, impedance spectroscopy, and radiotracer methods. Environmental aspects and some methods for perchlorate removal and wastewater treatment are briefly summarized.