Enhanced Adsorption and Regeneration with Lignocellulose-Based Phosphorus Removal Media Using Molecular Coating Nanotechnology

The removal of phosphorus in point and non-point-source pollution has become one of the leading problems in water quality since the beginning of the 21st century. Several natural, domestic, and industrial treatment systems already exist, but with very limited efficiencies and serious procedural defects. Lignocellulose-based Anion Removal Media (LAM) was developed in association with iron nanocoating technology as means of phosphorus adsorption from various concentrations of contaminated water. Results revealed that trivalent iron coated lignocellulose pellets can be used to effectively remove phosphorus contaminants from point and non-point-source polluted water. Removal capacities of pelletized cotton media surpass existing materials for phosphorus removal by at least 22 times, while remaining both efficient and cost effective. The materials were also investigated for regeneration, yielding high removal capacities even after the fifth regeneration. Treatment methodology and outlines are proposed, and procedural mechanisms are explored in this study. An economic evaluation of this technology is also assessed for a practical application of LAM to point/non-point-source polluted water.

Keywords::

• Cellulose
• Cotton pellet
• Iron
• Natural resource
• Point-source pollution
• Non-point-source pollution
• Paper media
• Pelletization
• Phosphorus
• Reuse
• Woody and nonwoody plants
• Zero-discharge process.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Some of the LAM samples were tested at the Department of Chemistry in Valdosta State University. Funding for the development of this technology came from H₂O Technology, LLC. (Valdosta, GA). We also thank to The National High Magnetic Field Laboratory at Florida State University for the use of their ESEM and Mr. Robert Goddard for his technical help with ESEM and X-ray Analysis.