Scientists from Tomsk Polytechnic University (TPU) and University of Brawijaya have developed an innovative hydrogel that can purify water from heavy metals and absorb up to 70% of pollutants. The main raw materials for its creation were polysaccharides obtained from fruits such as bananas, apples and oranges. Using ultrasonic extraction, scientists obtained an extract, which was then converted into a hydrogel with high water absorption capacity and active functional groups that enhance adsorption properties.
To test the effectiveness of the new material, scientists used water containing various heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, chromium and mercury. The hydrogel was able to purify water by 70% of these contaminants, regardless of metal concentration. According to Antonio Di Martino, associate professor at the Research School of Chemical and Biomedical Processes, this opens up the possibility of using the hydrogel in filters and water purification plants.
The hydrogel was tested in two ways: by immersion in contaminated water and through a column passing water. In the first case, only 2 grams of hydrogel were needed to purify one liter of water, and the process took about an hour. In the latter case, the hydrogel is able to purify up to 20 ml of water per minute. The scientists also plan to test the hydrogel in polluted waters in the Tomsk region and Indonesia and compare it with other adsorbents to evaluate its effectiveness under different conditions.
Source: Ferra
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