Ammonia removal from aqueous solution using natural Chinese clinoptilolite
The research paper investigates the effectiveness of natural Chinese clinoptilolite in removing ammonia from aqueous solutions. The study is divided into batch and column experiments, examining various parameters such as contact time, pH, and initial ammonia concentration.
In the batch study, it was found that ammonia removal occurs rapidly within the first 15 minutes, reaching equilibrium after approximately 4 hours. The efficiency of ammonia removal is influenced by pH, with optimal removal occurring at a pH of around 6. Additionally, the ammonia removal capacity increases with higher initial ammonia concentrations.
The column study assessed the breakthrough capacity of clinoptilolite at different flow velocities. Results indicated that higher flow velocities lead to lower breakthrough capacities due to reduced hydraulic retention time. The study also explored regeneration conditions, concluding that 15-20 bed volumes (BV) of a 0.5 mol/L sodium chloride solution at pH 11-12 are sufficient for complete regeneration of clinoptilolite without loss of its ammonia removal capacity. Notably, the first regeneration cycle improved the clinoptilolite's exchange capacity.
The research paper emphasizes the potential of clinoptilolite as an effective and practical method for ammonia removal from wastewater, contributing to environmental protection and water quality management.
This research paper is significant in the field of environmental science and engineering, particularly in wastewater treatment. It contributes to ongoing discussions about sustainable and efficient methods for ammonia removal, which is crucial for preventing eutrophication and maintaining aquatic ecosystems. The findings provide valuable insights into the operational parameters necessary for optimizing clinoptilolite's performance, making it a viable alternative to traditional ammonia removal methods. The research also highlights the importance of regeneration processes, which can enhance the sustainability of using clinoptilolite in water treatment applications. Readers benefit from understanding the practical applications of clinoptilolite and its potential to improve water treatment technologies.
