Porous geopolymers for arsenic and selenium removal from water
A novel water purification solution using porous geopolymers to remove heavy metals like arsenic and selenium. The technology employs graphene oxide and hydroxyapatite for enhanced sequestration, offering a reusable and scalable method for water treatment.
Overview
Porous geopolymers provide an innovative solution for removing heavy metals such as arsenic and selenium from water. These inorganic, aluminosilicate polymers are made from metakaolin clay and are scalable for various water purification applications. By forming ceramic-like materials, they can integrate sequestering agents like graphene oxide, layered double hydroxides, and hydroxyapatite to effectively capture heavy metals. This technology not only allows for the removal of toxic contaminants but also supports the recovery and reuse of sequestering agents, providing a sustainable cycle for water purification.
Technical specifications
- Composition: Geopolymers made from metakaolin clay mixed with alkali silicate solution.
- Sequestering Agents: Decorated with graphene oxide, layered double hydroxides, or EDTA for arsenic removal; hydroxyapatite for selenium anion sequestration.
- Process: Heavy metals are removed by washing the porous geopolymer with an acidic solution, allowing for the recovery of metals and reuse of the geopolymer.
- Applications: Suitable for treating water contaminated with arsenic, selenium, and potentially other heavy metals.
- Characterization Methods: XRD, SEM/EDS, porosimetry, SSA, XRF, NMR are utilized to optimize the process and enhance performance.
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at a TRL 4, having been demonstrated in a laboratory setting with ongoing efforts to optimize and validate the process for simultaneous sequestration of arsenic and selenium.
About Keanetech, LLC
Keanetech, LLC is a research-based consulting firm specializing in platform technologies that leverage inorganic ceramic-based materials. Founded in 2004 and based in Champaign, Illinois, the company focuses on transitioning fundamental scientific research from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) into practical, commercial applications. Their technical expertise encompasses low-energy ceramic powder synthesis, geopolymer design, and the development of high-tech ceramics for various industrial and environmental use cases. Operating a dedicated research and fabrication facility, the team consists of researchers and materials scientists focused on sustainable innovation.
The company's work addresses critical industrial and environmental challenges, such as reducing carbon dioxide emissions, promoting the circular economy, and enhancing agricultural productivity. They develop prototype materials and technologies, including fire-resistant geopolymers for construction, Li-ion battery components, and agricultural supplements like their Gelizer seed booster, which is designed to increase crop yields. By utilizing industrial waste materials as precursors and aiming for low-energy production methods, Keanetech provides sustainable alternatives to traditional materials, serving partners and industries interested in cost-effective, environmentally conscious engineering solutions.
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