Degradation of Organic Compounds in Aqueous Media using Semiconductor Nanomaterials

Abstract

Wastewater from the Laundry wash processes contain a diverse range of chemical pollutants that can have detrimental effects on human health and the environment. In this study, simulation studies by Spyder Python software v3.2 to assess the efficacy of biochar in removing PO43− from wastewater were conducted. Through modelling and simulation, the mechanisms involved in the adsorption process of phosphate by biochar were studied by altering variables that are specific to the phosphate from common laundry detergents. These included aqueous solubility, initial concentration, and temperature using Dudinin and Astakhov (DA). Results showed that concentration equilibrates near the highest concentrations for CaO-rich biochar-120 mg L−1, Pine sawdust biochar-57 mg L−1 while Peanut, Eucalyptus polybractea and Crawfish biochar equilibrated at near concentration. CO2-activated Thalia, Sewage sludge, Broussonetia papyrifera Leaves biochar equilibrated just at the lower concentration. Soyer bean Stover biochar exhibited a sharp rise and fall peak in mid-concentration at 130 mg L−1 Volume. The modelling results were consistent with experimental findings from literature ensuring the accuracy, repeatability, and reliability of the simulation study. The simulation study provided insights into adsorption for PO43− from wastewater by biochar using concentration per volume that can be ideally adsorbed under the given conditions. Studies showed that applying the principle experimentally in real wastewater with all its complexity is warranted and not far-fetched.