Utilization of agro-industrial and municipal waste materials as potential adsorbents for water treatment—A review
The research paper reviews the potential of using agro-industrial and municipal waste materials as low-cost adsorbents for water treatment, particularly in the removal of aquatic pollutants. Traditional adsorbents like activated carbon are effective but often prohibitively expensive, prompting the exploration of alternative materials derived from waste. The authors compile an extensive list of various low-cost adsorbents sourced from agricultural and industrial by-products, highlighting their adsorption capacities for different pollutants.
The introduction emphasizes the global water crisis, with millions lacking access to clean water due to pollution from industrial and agricultural activities. The review discusses various water treatment technologies, with a focus on adsorption as a preferred method due to its simplicity and effectiveness. The authors detail the adsorption process, distinguishing between physical and chemical adsorption, and provide a historical context for the development of adsorbents.
The review categorizes low-cost adsorbents into agricultural wastes (e.g., rice husk, wheat bran, tea leaves, coffee grounds, and coconut waste) and industrial wastes (e.g., fly ash, steel slag, and red mud). Each category is examined for its effectiveness in removing specific pollutants, with numerous studies cited to support the claims. The authors also address the challenges and limitations of using low-cost adsorbents, such as the need for further research on their practical applications and the optimization of production processes.
The conclusion emphasizes the environmental and economic benefits of utilizing waste materials for water treatment, while also calling for more comprehensive studies to fill existing knowledge gaps and enhance the commercial viability of these adsorbents.
This research paper is significant in the field of environmental engineering and water treatment as it addresses the urgent need for cost-effective and sustainable solutions to water pollution. By highlighting the potential of waste materials as adsorbents, the review contributes to ongoing discussions about waste management and resource recovery. It offers practical insights for researchers, policymakers, and industries looking to implement eco-friendly practices in water treatment. The findings encourage the exploration of alternative materials that can reduce reliance on expensive commercial adsorbents, ultimately promoting environmental sustainability and public health.
