Nanocomposite used for waste water treatment

Chemical Engineering

ABSTRACT: Energy efficient, low-cost, user-friendly, and green methods for the removal of toxic phenolic compounds and zinc from solution are necessary for waste treatment in industrial applications. Herein we present an interesting approach for the utilization of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in the removal of phenolic compounds and zinc from solution. Dried pristine MWCNTs were stably incorporated in a solid porous support of polysulphone (PS) facilitating the handling during both direct mixing process of the nanomaterial and uptake of phenolic compounds and zinc, enabling their safe disposal, avoiding expensive post-treatment processes. The adsorption studies indicated that the materials can efficiently remove phenolic compounds and zinc from water. The incorporation of MWCNTs in polymeric matrices did affect their functionality in phenol and zinc uptake. Moreover, the surface of the material could be regenerated, decreasing treatment cost.The characterization of Multi walled Carbon nanotube (MWCNTs) was performed by scanning electron microscope and Fourier-transformation infrared spectra (FTIR) for functional groups. The effect of different parameters such as adsorbent dosage, pH of adsorbate solution and contact time were studied for removal of Zinc and phenolic compound from solutions onto MWCNTs.

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