17 - Application of nanotechnology, nanofiltration, and drinking and wastewater treatment—a vision for the future

Abstract

Environmental engineering science is moving at a rapid and drastic pace toward a newer realm and a newer visionary future. Rigid environmental regulations and zero-discharge norms has urged the scientific domain to devise new directions in novel separation processes, advanced oxidation processes and nontraditional environmental engineering techniques. Challenges, difficulties and barriers to environmental engineering applications needs to be readdressed and reenvisioned. History of environmental engineering science, scientific cognizance, and mankind’s prowess will all go a long way in evolving new directions in the application of nanotechnology in drinking water treatment and industrial wastewater treatment. Nanofiltration and membrane separation processes in its truest sense is the only plausible solution to the varied problems of global drinking water crisis. In this treatise, the author deals strongly with deep and cogent insight the varied application of nanotechnology and nanofiltration in drinking water treatment. The author also delineates the recent scientific endeavor in the field of nanofiltration and other environmental engineering and chemical engineering separation processes with specific importance to water treatment. Man’s vision, mankind’s prowess, and the path toward progress in the field of drinking water treatment evolve into new scientific and technological advancements. The author will also specifically deal with fouling phenomenon and the concept of concentration boundary layer. Drinking water crisis can only be solved if the scientific truth and scientific vision behind nanofiltration and other avenues of nanotechnology are truly realized. The challenge and vision behind this treatise and the immense urge to excel will surely open new dimensions of scientific understanding and scientific adjudication in years to come.