Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 10, 2025
08:01
Removal of Arsenic Using a Cationic Polymer Gel Impregnated with Iron Hydroxide
Published on: June 28, 2019
7.7K
Adsorption Studies of Waterborne Trihalomethanes Using Modified Polysaccharide Adsorbents
Rui Guo1, Lalita Bharadwaj2, Lee D Wilson1
1Department of Chemistry, University of Saskatchewan, 110 Science Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0X2, Canada.
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)
|April 3, 2021
Summary
Modified biodegradable polymers effectively remove trihalomethanes (THMs) from water. Adsorbent properties influence selectivity for these disinfection byproducts based on molecular size and polarizability.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Chemistry
- Polymer Science
- Water Treatment
Background:
- Trihalomethanes (THMs) are common disinfection byproducts in drinking water.
- Effective removal of THMs is crucial for public health and regulatory compliance.
- Biodegradable polymers offer a sustainable approach to water purification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the adsorptive removal of THMs using modified polysaccharide adsorbents.
- To investigate the influence of polymer structure and properties on THM adsorption.
- To assess the selectivity of adsorbents for different THMs in mixed solutions.
Main Methods:
- Utilized modified polysaccharide adsorbents containing β-cyclodextrin or chitosan.
- Evaluated THM uptake from aqueous solutions using gas chromatography with direct aqueous injection (DAI) and electrolytic conductivity detection.
- Applied the Sips model to analyze adsorption isotherms and determine monolayer adsorption capacities.
Main Results:
- Adsorption capacities ranged from 0.04 to 1.07 mmol THMs/g.
- Adsorbent performance varied based on polymer structure, composition, and surface properties.
- Demonstrated selective adsorption of THMs influenced by molecular size and polarizability.
Conclusions:
- Modified polysaccharide adsorbents show promise for THM removal from water.
- Tailoring polymer characteristics can enhance selectivity for specific THMs.
- These biodegradable materials offer a viable option for sustainable water treatment applications.
