Pollutant Absorption as a Possible End-Of-Life Solution for Polyphenolic Polymers

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Environmental Science
• Green Chemistry

Background:

• Tannin- and lignin-furanic foams are natural porous materials valued for thermal and fire resistance.
• Effective end-of-life management strategies for these foams are currently lacking.
• Wastewater treatment presents a potential application for derived materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the pollutant removal capacity of phenolic-furanic powders derived from tannin- and lignin-furanic foams.
• To evaluate the role of flavonoid and furanic components in pollutant absorption.
• To assess the regenerability of these powders for sustainable wastewater treatment.

Main Methods:

• Phenolic-furanic powders from foam fractions were prepared and characterized.
• Adsorption experiments were conducted using methylene blue, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), and riboflavin as model pollutants.
• Acidified tannin powders were prepared to isolate flavonoid contributions.
• Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) and solid-state 13C-NMR spectroscopy were used for material analysis.
• Regeneration efficiency was tested using ethanol washing.

Main Results:

• Macromolecules from larger foam fractions showed higher efficacy in removing methylene blue and SDS.
• Acidified tannin powders exhibited outstanding absorption capacities for all tested pollutants.
• The flavonoid fraction was identified as crucial for absorption, with a limited contribution from the furanic part.
• FT-IR and NMR analyses provided insights into the adsorbent structures.
• Simple ethanol washing enabled near-complete regeneration of the powders, restoring absorption capabilities.

Conclusions:

• Phenolic-furanic powders, particularly those rich in flavonoids, are effective adsorbents for diverse organic pollutants in wastewater.
• The study highlights a promising, sustainable end-of-life application for tannin- and lignin-furanic foams.
• The regenerability of these materials supports their potential for cost-effective and environmentally friendly wastewater treatment solutions.