Wastewater and Industrial Effluent Treatment by Using Nanotechnology

Abstract

Over a decade, water pollution has been our major area of concern that has affected agriculture and health of the people and animals widely across the globe. Apart from the unstoppable and polluting effluents from the industries, several gallons of water are also wasted domestically every day in the form of plumbing fixtures, toilets, laundry, bath and miscellaneous activities. This problem has plagued the entire world’s environment socially and economically. However, the waste can be treated to overcome this emerging pain implementing various methods in which nanotechnology has played a promising role. The science which involves nanoparticles known for their large surface area, high reactivity, a high degree of functionalization, etc. can be efficiently used to remove the metal toxins and microbial, organic and inorganic contaminants from the polluted water. Different nano-processes can be employed to overcome this growing issue such as nano-adsorbent, nanocatalyst and nanomembranes and by the integration of biological processes. These nano-processes include the use of activated carbon, carbon nanotubes, zinc oxide, titanium oxide, electrocatalyst, photocatalyst and other physical and chemical materials and phenomenon for the elimination of contaminants from the water bodies. This book chapter describes various efficient techniques and materials for both small- and large-scale treatment of wastewater and industrial effluent.