METHODS OF SYNTHESIZING AN OXIDANT AND APPLICATIONS THEREOF

1 . A method of treating, at a site of use, an aqueous mixture having at least one impurity, comprising

a) continuously generating ferrate at a location that is proximal to the site of use;

b) contacting the ferrate with the aqueous mixture at the site of use, whereby at least a portion of the impurity is oxidized or coagulated.

2 . The method of claim 1 , wherein the step of continuously generating ferrate comprises the steps of:

a) mixing an aqueous solution comprising an iron salt and an oxidizing agent in a mixing chamber;

b) delivering at least a portion of the aqueous solution to a reaction chamber;

c) continuously generating ferrate in the reaction chamber;

d) delivering at least a portion of the ferrate to a site of use that is proximal to the reaction chamber; and

e) adding additional aqueous solution to the mixing chamber.

3 . The method of claim 2 , further comprising the step of adding a base to the aqueous solution.

4 . The method of claim 1 , whereby at least a portion of the impurity is coagulated.

5 . The method of claim 1 , wherein the aqueous mixture is drinking water.

6 . The method of claim 1 , wherein the aqueous mixture is waste water.

7 . The method of claim 1 , wherein the aqueous mixture is sewage water.

8 . The method of claim 1 , wherein the step of continuously generating ferrate is performed in a reaction chamber.