Removal of azo dye Orange II using nZVI catalyst supported on a natural fiber (Fique)

Currently, nanoscale zero valent iron (nZVI) species are of interest for potential applications in soil remediation and wastewater treatment. Related studies have shown that nZVI has a high reactive surface allowing to improve... [ view full abstract ]

Currently, nanoscale zero valent iron (nZVI) species are of interest for potential applications in soil remediation and wastewater treatment. Related studies have shown that nZVI has a high reactive surface allowing to improve sequestration capacity of heavy metals and other compounds difficult to treat as: chlorinated organic solvents, organochloride pesticides and organic dyes. This work carried out the preparation and characterization of nZVI catalyst supported on a natural fiber (fique) and its performance as wastewater treatment for organic dyes.

The nanoparticles synthesis was performed by liquid phase reduction, in a first step the natural fibers were mixed with the precursor solution to form a mixture which was heated. To this mixture, a solution of ethanol and polyethylene glycol, were added with constant stirring. The reaction pH was adjusted using NaOH. And then, in a N2 atmosphere, sodium borohydride was added dropwise until the formation of the characteristic black precipitates.

In order to characterize the synthesized catalyst. it was used, X-ray Diffraction (XRD). The catalytic activity of this bionanocomposite was studied for the removal of organic dyes in water samples, showing to be a very attractive and efficient technology for undeveloped countries like Colombia.