BADLIS RABE Research Colloquium Presentation

Summary

This study explores the use of sodium-modified Philippine natural zeolites (PNZ) for the consecutive removal of calcium, magnesium, and phosphates from simulated municipal wastewater. The research aims to provide a natural and efficient wastewater treatment method, contributing to SDG 6 for clean water and sanitation. The modified zeolites showed enhanced absorption capacities and removal efficiencies, particularly for calcium and magnesium. The study recommends further research on the impact of other contaminants and optimization of parameters for improved absorption.

Takeaways

• 🌏 The world is facing an increase in wastewater generation, causing water pollution and affecting aquatic life, with phosphates being a major toxic pollutant contributing to eutrophication.
• 📈 In 2012, there was a significant rise in waste production and wastewater generation, yet only 5% of the Philippine population received proper wastewater treatment, indicating a pressing need for improved treatment methods.
• 🎯 The primary objective of the study is to develop and utilize sodium-modified Philippine natural zeolites (PNZ) for the consecutive removal of calcium, magnesium, and phosphates from simulated municipal wastewater.
• 🧪 The study involves the preparation of sodium-modified zeolites by immersing them in a sodium carbonate solution, followed by washing and drying, to enhance their absorption capacity.
• 📊 The effectiveness of the modified zeolites was tested by analyzing their absorption capacity and removal efficiency for calcium, magnesium, and phosphates, using ionized water to simulate municipal wastewater.
• 📈 The results showed that the modified zeolites had a higher removal efficiency for calcium and magnesium compared to the unmodified PNZ, indicating the success of the sodium modification process.
• 📉 The absorption capacity of the modified zeolites decreased with increased solution concentrations, suggesting saturation points and the need for sufficient active sites for effective absorption.
• 🔬 The study used AES and other analytical methods to determine the concentrations of calcium, magnesium, and phosphates in the samples, providing quantitative data on the absorption process.
• 📚 The research aligns with SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) by contributing to the development of more natural and efficient wastewater treatment methods.
• 🔍 The study's findings suggest that sodium-modified zeolites, particularly sodium calcium zeolite, are highly effective in phosphate removal, with potential applications in real-world wastewater treatment.
• 🔍 The kinetic models used in the study, specifically the pseudo-second-order model, indicate that the removal processes involve chemisorption and ion exchange, providing insights into the mechanisms of absorption.

Q & A

What is the main objective of the thesis study presented in the script?

The main objective of the study is to prepare and utilize sodium modified Philippine natural zeolites (PNZ) for the consecutive removal of calcium, magnesium, and phosphates from simulated municipal wastewater.

Why are phosphates considered a toxic pollutant in municipal wastewater?

Phosphates are considered toxic pollutants because they contribute to the eutrophication of water, which can lead to excessive growth of algae and negatively impact aquatic life.

What was the state of wastewater treatment in the Philippines in 2012?

In 2012, only 5% of the population in the Philippines was able to receive proper wastewater treatment, indicating a significant issue with waste management and treatment in the country.

How were the sodium modified zeolites prepared in the study?

The sodium modified zeolites were prepared by immersing 5 grams of zeolite in 150 ml of a one molar sodium carbonate solution, which was then heated gently at 80°C for 4 hours. This process was repeated three times for a total modification time of 12 hours.

What method was used to analyze the effectiveness and efficiency of the absorption process in the study?

The effectiveness and efficiency of the absorption process were analyzed by calculating the percent removal and absorption capacity of calcium, magnesium, and phosphates by the zeolites. Additionally, experimental data were fitted to pseudo first order (PFO) and pseudo second order (PSO) kinetic models.

How did the sodium modification affect the absorption capacity of the zeolites for calcium and magnesium removal?

The sodium modification significantly enhanced the absorption capacity of the zeolites for calcium and magnesium removal, as the modified zeolites showed at least a two-fold increase in absorption capacity compared to the unmodified PNZ.

What was the most effective absorbent for phosphate removal according to the study results?

The sodium calcium zeolite was the most effective and efficient absorbent for phosphate removal among the tested materials.

How does the initial concentration of calcium and magnesium in the solution affect the removal efficiency of the zeolites?

The removal efficiency decreases with an increase in the initial concentration of calcium and magnesium in the solution, suggesting that at higher concentrations, the number of active sites on the zeolites may be insufficient to remove the amount of present ions.

What does the FTIR spectroscopy analysis suggest about the changes in the zeolite framework after the modification and absorption processes?

The FTIR spectroscopy analysis suggests that the modification and absorption processes reduced the number of silicon-oxygen bonds in the zeolite framework, indicating changes in the zeolite's composition and structure.

What was the recommended future research direction mentioned in the script?

The script recommends future research to further examine the effectiveness and efficiency of sodium modified zeolites in consecutive calcium, magnesium, and phosphate removal using simulated municipal wastewater that includes other contaminants, similar to actual municipal wastewater. Additionally, studies could optimize parameters such as temperature and pH to improve the absorption process.