Low-Cost Materials with Adsorption Performance

Abstract

Adsorption techniques are widely used to remove pollutants from wastewater. Low-cost adsorbents have received much attention for adsorption of pollutants such as heavy metal ions and dyes. Various modifications have been investigated in attempts to improve the adsorption properties, as well as mechanical and physical characteristics, of low-cost adsorbents. This chapter discusses the major research topics related to low-cost adsorbents and their derivatives for application in the removal of pollutants from water. These include agricultural wastes, industrial solid wastes, biomass, clay minerals, and zeolites. From a literature survey of more than 70 recently published papers, it is evident that low-cost adsorbents have demonstrated outstanding pollutant-removal capabilities. Modifications of low-cost adsorbents can alter their original properties, making them better suited for the adsorption of various pollutant types. A better understanding of these varieties and their affinity toward various types of pollutants can help to orientate future research toward addressing knowledge gaps in this area. This chapter provides an opportunity for researchers to better explore the potential of low-cost adsorbents for the removal of a great variety of pollutants.