Article
Agricultural Engineering
Lianjie Zhao, Jonathan Diaz-Baca, Ayyoub Salaghi, Jia Gao, Yingchao Wang, Qiang Wang, Pedram Fatehi
Summary: A novel cationic tall oil lignin (TOL)-starch copolymer was successfully synthesized using a polymerization reaction and demonstrated improved solubility, molecular weight, and charge density. The copolymer exhibited the most efficient flocculation behavior in clay suspension systems, making it a promising flocculant option. This study provides a new strategy for developing sustainable cationic lignin-starch flocculants for various applications.
INDUSTRIAL CROPS AND PRODUCTS
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Textiles
Chaoying Chen, Xiumei Zhang, Hridam Deb, Fugen Liang, Haidong Zhu, Kecong Cui, Yong Zhang, Juming Yao
Summary: BC-g-PAM, an eco-friendly flocculant, has shown excellent flocculation performance on papermaking wastewater, effectively removing suspended solids and improving water quality. Additionally, BC-g-PAM exhibits outstanding biodegradability, making it environmentally friendly.
FIBERS AND POLYMERS
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Bin Du, Qian Tang, Wei Chen, Xiang Rong, Ke Zhang, Dandan Ma, Zhaolan Wei
Summary: To improve nanostructural stability and algal removal efficiency, a novel nanochitosan-grafted flocculant (PAD-g-MNC) with enhanced nanostructure and high molecular weight was synthesized. PAD-g-MNC exhibited superior algal and extracellular organic matter (EOM) removal, with turbidity and chlorophyll-a removal rates of 93.46%-95.39% and 95.10%-97.31%, respectively, at a dosage of 4-5 mg L-1. The growth rate, strength factor, and recovery factor of algal flocs flocculated by PAD-g-MNC were higher than other conventional flocculants. The results suggest that the branched nanostructure and high molecular weight of PAD-g-MNC promote the formation of stable flocs and enhance the regeneration ability of flocs.
JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Kangying Guo, Baoyu Gao, Jie Wang, Jingwen Pan, Qinyan Yue, Xing Xu
Summary: In this study, a papermaking sludge-based flocculant (PSBF) was compared to polyaluminium chloride (PAC) and polyacrylamide (PAM) for practical printing and dyeing wastewater (PPDW) treatment. PSBF showed better performance than PAC at a pH higher than 7.0, and when used in combination with PAC, it enhanced removal efficiencies of color, CODCr and turbidity in PPDW treatment.
FRONTIERS OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & ENGINEERING
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Ruxia Chen, Yuping Fan, Xianshu Dong, Xiaomin Ma, Zeyu Feng, Ming Chang, Na Li
Summary: The pH of the solution has a significant impact on the interaction between polymer flocculants and solid colloid particles, influencing the flocculation performance. In ultrafine coal suspension, without the flocculant, low settling velocity and transmittance were observed under alkaline conditions, while the presence of the Magnafloc5250 showed improved performance at pH 4 with the highest transmittance and at pH 10 with the maximum settling velocity and floc size.
COLLOIDS AND SURFACES A-PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND ENGINEERING ASPECTS
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Wei Chen, Fengjiao Zhang, Qian Tang, Bin Du, Dandan Ma, Zhihan Zhao, Liangqian Fan, Hongbing Luo, Zhongguo Zhao, Xing Huang, Huaili Zheng
Summary: A novel chelating flocculant with branched architectures, PAM-g-M(CS-MA), was successfully synthesized and demonstrated excellent flocculation performance for heavy metal wastewater treatment, especially in high concentrations. The study provided insights into the synergistic chelation mechanisms and the role of branched architectures in forming large and stable flocs for effective removal of heavy metals.
Article
Polymer Science
Kevin Perez, Norman Toro, Matias Jeldres, Edelmira Galvez, Pedro Robles, Omar Alvarado, Pedro G. Toledo, Ricardo Jeldres
Summary: This study investigates the shear resistance of kaolin aggregates in water clarification and recovery operations, and presents a standardized method for determining the shear strength of flocculated kaolin aggregates. The resistance of the aggregates is evaluated based on flocculation time, flocculant dosage, and water quality, and is found to be positively correlated with time and flocculant dosage. In seawater, higher flocculant dosage leads to stronger aggregates, while in industrial water with low salt content, the resistance of the aggregates is higher.
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Hassimi Abu Hasan, Jahira Alias, Farahanim Nabila Arbain, Siti Rozaimah Sheikh Abdullah, Nor Azman Kasan, Mohd Hafizuddin Muhamad
Summary: This study reuses sago mill effluent (SME) for bio-based polymeric flocculant production, optimizing conditions to achieve high yield of bioflocculants, COD removal, and enhanced flocculating activity. The bioflocculants produced contained various elements and sugars, showing potential for supporting the circular economy concept and reducing waste discharge to the environment.
ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Min-Zhao Lin, Wei-Xiong Li, Tian Hu, Huaitian Bu, Zeng-Lin Li, Tianfu Wu, Xia-Xiao Wu, Chao Sun, Yongtao Li, Gang-Biao Jiang
Summary: The study developed a novel method to remove harmful algal blooms by combining flocculation and flotation functions using self-branched chitosan and CaO2@PEG. Experimental results demonstrated the effectiveness and biocompatibility of this method, which can improve water quality and reduce total phosphorus concentrations.
CARBOHYDRATE POLYMERS
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Nihan Canan Ozdemir, Esra Yel
Summary: This study investigates the treatment of HDPE, LDPE, PET, and PP plastic washing wastewater using sulfonated polystyrene as a flocculant. The results show that this flocculant effectively removes turbidity, COD, SS, and oil grease from the wastewater, providing a promising solution for the treatment of plastic washing wastewater.
WATER AIR AND SOIL POLLUTION
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Rui Zhang, Zhong-yue Chang, Ling-ling Wang, Wei-xin Cheng, Rong-ping Chen, Lei Yu, Xu-hai Qiu, Jian-gang Han
Summary: The study evaluated the flocculation feasibilities of tobacco wastewater and livestock and poultry wastewater by the extracellular polymeric substances of Bacillus sp. The crude EPS showed larger floc sizes and higher removal efficiencies compared to chemical flocculants. Charge neutralization was dominant in LPW flocculation, while chemical reactions with Fe(III) played a role in TBW flocculation.
SEPARATION AND PURIFICATION TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Hessam Shabanizadeh, Mohsen Taghavijeloudar
Summary: The use of natural flocculants in the coagulation-flocculation process for water and wastewater treatment has gained attention for its simplicity and safety. This study evaluated the performance of pomegranate seed powder as a novel natural flocculant for treating pulp and paper wastewater (PPWW). The results showed that pomegranate seeds contained active substances that contributed to their coagulating ability, achieving high removal efficiencies of COD and turbidity when used at optimal dosages. Dual flocculation of pomegranate seeds and alum showed a synergistic effect, resulting in even higher removal rates and shorter treatment time.
PROCESS SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
(2023)
Review
Engineering, Environmental
Siti Nur Hatika Abu Bakar, Hassimi Abu Hasan, Siti Rozaimah Sheikh Abdullah, Nor Azman Kasan, Mohd Hafizuddin Muhamad, Setyo Budi Kurniawan
Summary: The use of chemical flocculants in water and wastewater treatment has raised concerns due to its potential toxicity and environmental impact. In response, bioflocculants have emerged as a promising alternative, offering biodegradable, eco-friendly, and safe solutions. The identification and production of novel bioflocculants, particularly those derived from bacteria, have gained significant attention worldwide. Extraction and purification techniques in bioflocculant production are crucial in determining production yield, with various methods such as solvent extraction and lyophilisation being commonly used. The development of bioflocculants represents a significant advancement in sustainable environmental technology, with future research needed to enhance extraction and purification techniques for broader application in water and wastewater treatment.
JOURNAL OF WATER PROCESS ENGINEERING
(2021)
Article
Geochemistry & Geophysics
Bao Guo, Xinlei Zhan, Kaixi Jiang, Hongzhen Xie, Rongdong Deng
Summary: This study investigated the flocculation behavior of quartz particles in sulfuric acid solution using nonionic flocculants PEO and PAM, as well as ionic cofactor MMT and nonionic cofactor TA. The results showed that TA can promote the bridging flocculation of PEO-quartz by forming associative complexes with larger clusters in solution, while MMT electrostatically adsorbs on the quartz surface, enhancing its bridging with PAM.
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Thiago Nishimura, Giuliana Varela Garcia Lesak, Lorenna Alves Xavier, Rafael Bruno Vieira, Andre Bellin Mariano
Summary: Through experiments, it was found that increasing temperature, combined with higher flocculant concentrations, can improve the permeate flux of microalgal suspensions, with the best performance observed at 40 degrees Celsius.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Jose Luis Sanchez-Salvador, Ana Balea, Carlos Negro, Maria Concepcion Monte, Angeles Blanco
Summary: This study proposes a method based on gel point to calculate the dispersion degree and aspect ratio of cellulose micro and nanofibrils in water suspensions. The results show that higher stirring speeds decrease the dispersion capability and cause network collapse, while intermediate stirring speeds result in better dispersion behavior and network structure. Higher dispersion of cellulose before adding to the pulp leads to higher mechanical properties.
Article
Materials Science, Paper & Wood
Hongyu Xu, Jose Luis Sanchez-Salvador, Ana Balea, Angeles Blanco, Carlos Negro
Summary: This study optimized TEMPO-mediated oxidation reactions to reduce costs while achieving efficient and sustainable production of CNFs. Through adjusting reaction conditions, the carboxyl groups were increased while reducing catalyst doses, resulting in highly fibrillated CNFs with lower environmental impact.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Laura B. Torres-Mata, Omar Garcia-Perez, Francisco Rodriguez-Esparragon, Angeles Blanco, Jesus Villar, Fernando Ruiz-Apodaca, Jose L. Martin-Barrasa, Jesus M. Gonzalez-Martin, Pedro Serrano-Aguilar, Jose E. Pinero, Elizabeth Cordoba-Lanus, Jacob Lorenzo-Morales, Bernardino Clavo
Summary: This study assessed the optimal conditions of ozone treatment for eliminating heat-inactivated SARS-CoV-2 from office supplies and clinical equipment. Results showed that ozone could effectively eliminate the virus RNA, providing an additional tool to control the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Francisco de Borja Ojembarrena, Jose Luis Sanchez-Salvador, Sergio Mateo, Ana Balea, Angeles Blanco, Noemi Merayo, Carlos Negro
Summary: Cellulose nanofibers (CNF) are sustainable nanomaterials that can be used as adsorbents for hexavalent chromium removal. Hydrophobization of CNF improves their adsorption capacity. The optimal conditions for hexavalent chromium removal are pH 3 and an adsorbent dosage above 500 mg/L.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Francisco de Borja Ojembarrena, Hassan Sammaraie, Cristina Campano, Angeles Blanco, Noemi Merayo, Carlos Negro
Summary: This study investigated the adsorption removal of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) from industrial wastewaters using cationic cellulose nanocrystals (CCNC). The results showed that CCNC is capable of rapidly removing Cr(VI) and converting it into less-toxic trivalent species.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Jose Luis Sanchez-Salvador, Mariana P. Marques, Margarida S. C. A. Brito, Carlos Negro, Maria Concepcion Monte, Yaidelin A. Manrique, Ricardo J. Santos, Angeles Blanco
Summary: The world's vegetable supply is more than double its intake, resulting in significant waste. This study investigates the production of lignocellulose micro- and nanofibrils (LCMNF) from greengrocery waste without cellulose extraction. The researchers achieved highly concentrated suspensions without the use of chemicals, offering a novel method to utilize vegetable waste for high-value applications.
Editorial Material
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Marc Delgado-Aguilar, Carlos Negro
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Itziar A. A. Escanciano, Miguel Ladero, Victoria E. E. Santos, Angeles Blanco
Summary: This study focuses on the production of succinic acid (SA) by Actinobacillus succinogenes DSM 22257 from glucose. A simple kinetic model is developed to study the evolution of the process over time. Experimental data shows that operational variables such as initial biomass concentration, yeast extract concentration, agitation speed, and carbon dioxide flow rate significantly affect SA production. The kinetic model is able to accurately fit the experimental data and shed light on the effect of different operational conditions on SA production.
FERMENTATION-BASEL
(2023)
Article
Polymer Science
Francisco de Borja Ojembarrena, Sergio Garcia, Noemi Merayo, Angeles Blanco, Carlos Negro
Summary: This study focuses on the synthesis and characterization of BC membranes, and their application to remove Ni(II) and Pb(II) from wastewater. It was found that BC membranes have excellent adsorption properties for both metals, with Ni(II) removal mechanism involving crystallization and Pb(II) removal being driven by the adsorption process.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Carlos Negro, Gunilla Pettersson, Amanda Mattsson, Staffan Nystroem, Jose Luis Sanchez-Salvador, Angeles Blanco, Per Engstrand
Summary: This study aims to assess the synergic effects of nanocellulose as a bulk additive and hot-pressing technology on the strength and barrier properties of high-yield pulps in packaging. The combination of nanocellulose and hot-pressing improves dry strength by 118%, with individual improvements of 31% by nanocellulose and 92% by hot-pressing. Hot-pressing and fibrillated cellulose also greatly decrease air permeability and increase the paper's ability to withstand compressive forces.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Ana Balea, M. Concepcion Monte, Elena Fuente, Jose Luis Sanchez-Salvador, Quim Tarres, Pere Mutje, Marc Delgado-Aguilar, Carlos Negro
Summary: This paper investigates the influence of various production techniques on the morphological characteristics and properties of nanofibrillated cellulose (CNF) produced from a mixture of recycled fibers. The results show that the pretreatment determines the yield and the potential of high-pressure homogenization (HPH) to enhance fibrillation, thus determining the final CNF properties. This enables effective selection of the most suitable production method to obtain high yield and desired CNF quality for diverse applications.
