New amphoteric flocculant containing beta-cyclodextrin, synthesis, characterization and decolorization properties

Area of Science:

• Polymer Chemistry
• Environmental Science
• Materials Science

Background:

• Developing efficient flocculants for wastewater treatment is crucial.
• Beta-cyclodextrin (beta-CD) derivatives offer unique properties for pollutant removal.
• Amphoteric polymers combine cationic and anionic characteristics for enhanced performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize a novel water-soluble amphoteric flocculant.
• To investigate the decolorization properties of the synthesized copolymer.
• To elucidate the mechanism behind the flocculation and decolorization process.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of beta-cyclodextrin derivative with vinyl carboxylic acid groups (beta-CD-MAH) via esterification.
• Free radical copolymerization of TMAEMC and beta-CD-MAH using APS/SBS redox initiator.
• Characterization of copolymer structure using FT-IR, (1)H NMR, and SEM.
• Evaluation of decolorization efficiency using Acid Light Yellow 2G and jar tests.

Main Results:

• Successful synthesis of the beta-CD-MAH-TMAEMC copolymer.
• Maximum color removal of Acid Light Yellow 2G achieved at a specific flocculant-dye ratio, pH, and temperature.
• Demonstrated excellent flocculated decolorization properties.
• Identified charge neutralization as the primary decolorization mechanism, with beta-CD inclusion contributing.

Conclusions:

• The synthesized beta-CD-MAH-TMAEMC copolymer is an effective amphoteric flocculant for dye decolorization.
• The combination of charge neutralization and beta-CD inclusion enhances flocculation efficiency.
• This copolymer shows promise for application in industrial wastewater treatment.