Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 29, 2026
08:01
Removal of Arsenic Using a Cationic Polymer Gel Impregnated with Iron Hydroxide
Published on: June 28, 2019
7.6K
From Batch to Pilot: Scaling Up Arsenic Removal with an Fe-Mn-Based Nanocomposite
Jasmina Nikić1, Jovana Jokić Govedarica1, Malcolm Watson1
1Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Environmental Protection, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Trg Dositeja Obradovića 3, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia.
Nanomaterials (Basel, Switzerland)
|July 25, 2025
Summary
This study shows that Fe-Mn nanocomposites can remove arsenic from groundwater. Optimizing flow rates and contact times is crucial for effective arsenic removal in real-world applications.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Materials Science
- Public Health
Background:
- Arsenic contamination in groundwater is a major health issue.
- Arsenic(III) is more toxic and mobile than Arsenic(V).
- Fe-Mn nanocomposites can oxidize and adsorb arsenic.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate an Fe-Mn nanocomposite for arsenic removal.
- To compare batch, fixed-bed, and pilot-scale performance.
- To understand the impact of water matrix and operational conditions.
Main Methods:
- Batch adsorption experiments.
- Fixed-bed column studies.
- Pilot-scale continuous flow tests.
Main Results:
- Adsorption capacity varied: 6.25 mg/g (synthetic), 4.71 mg/g (groundwater), 0.551 mg/g (pilot).
- Breakthrough curves showed good agreement between pilot and column studies.
- Lower flow rates and longer empty bed contact times (EBCTs) improved efficiency.
Conclusions:
- Scaling up Fe-Mn adsorbents requires continuous-flow studies with real water.
- Optimizing flow conditions, EBCTs, and pre-treatment is essential for sustainable arsenic removal.
