The electrochemical treatment of dyestuff from aqueous solution using an iron cell was achieved with reduction in chemical oxygen demand (COD) and color with high efficiency. Degradation of the azo dye Reactofix Red 3 BFN was carried out under different experimental conditions. Electrolysis completely decolorizes the effluent with substantial reduction in COD value. The rate kinetics during electrolysis was found to be first order. Results show that electrochemical reduction is a superior technology for treatment of dyes, as there is no simultaneous addition of anions, such as sulfate or chloride. (c) 2007 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.