Fabrication of a Low-Cost Water Purifier Incorporating Agricultural Wastes for the Removal of Dyes and Heavy Metals

Abstract

In twenty-first century, due to the advent of industrialization and urbanization, water is polluted with contaminants such as heavy metals, dyes and microorganisms. Dyes and heavy metals are major pollutants of water, which causes micro-toxicity together. Chemical methods of treatment of contaminated water are not economical and are a cumbersome process [1]. It is thereby extremely essential to look for alternatives. One such altercation is to incorporate biological processes as they possess the ability to biosorb dyes and heavy metals from polluted water. India produces 350 million tonnes of agricultural wastes [2]. Agricultural by-products such as sugarcane bagasse, coconut coir and rice husk are among many that can be used. In this pioneering research, the gap between solid waste management and water purification is bridged. The properties of activated and raw forms of sugarcane bagasse and coconut coir were studied for the removal of dyes and heavy metals. It was found that activated forms of biosorbents were more efficient in removal of heavy metals and dyes as compared to raw forms of biosorbents. Various factors such as contact time, doze, pH, temperature affecting the biosorption process were studied, and it was concluded that a steady rise in these parameters improved the biosorption properties. The results from the studies conducted were extrapolated for the fabrication of a low-cost water purifier. These biosorbents were coupled with an ultra-filtration membrane and an ultraviolet chamber. The fabricated unit was tested for its efficiency, economics, effectiveness, etc. Therefore, the use of agriculture wastes for the removal of contaminants is an effective alternative to remove contaminants from water as well as for wise solid waste management.